Doing the Hard things with God
When I first started to follow Jesus I had no idea what was in store. Although the past several years have been amazing filled with an abundance of life and joy God has asked me to do some hard things. Here is what I have learned.
Giving Up & Letting Go
How will your heart respond when God asks you to give up and let go? What if the promise of the last season is holding you back from the greater promise that is to come? What I have come to know about God is He is always giving and ever evolving my life as I grow in my character with Him. Often times this means things I prayed for and received in one season are outgrown and need to be laid down in order to pick up what He has for me in the next. This can be challenging to some, me included. I have really learned to embrace these moments holding onto the scripture "from glory to glory" (2 Corinthians 3:18).
Going Low to Be Brought High
There are times that I have felt as if the Father was pulling me backward in preparation to launch me forward. Remembering that regression in the natural while serving God can often times be a foretelling of a great advancement has helped me in the moments of what feels like falling. I hold on to the truth of God's word and anchor down in humility that there is no real failure in God, just lessons learned and opportunities to grow in the future. (1 Peter 5:5-10)
Joy in the Mourning
God is always good. When He asks you to do a hard thing realize you are not alone. He is walking with you and leading the way to the next stage of glory. Joy can always be found in the mourning just like the sun never quits shining, it just gets hidden from time to time. Each day brings new blessing but we must choose to see blessing where others see a mess. (Psalm 30:5)
He is Worth Every Cost
No matter what I have "given up" for the Lord I have never regretted it. I have found that when He is guiding me to give up something that there is something bigger, greater and more fitting for the season waiting. Do not be afraid to stand on the edge of a cliff with the Lord. I promise you He is faithful. (1 Peter 2:21)
