In a few weeks, I will again be looking for a job to replace the one that’s coming to an end. As I was contemplating all that’s rolled up into that grueling task I thought about, what else? Faith! Faith and how little I think about it when life is basically predictable with only a few chokes and sputters to pull us back into our focus on faith. It’s not that we lose faith; it’s there, but it sort of becomes routine….until we suddenly need to know there’s a power far greater than ourselves to rewrite the landscape of our lives and prepare the way for us in the unknown. I’ve probably said this a thousand times in the past year. Life is tough. Pray hard. I’m pretty sure that’s biblical. Hebrews 4:16 “Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” Doesn’t this say approach with confidence? No matter what, no matter where, life is better when God is there. Help when we need it!
Do you like change? Or are you more content with the familiar? There is no right or wrong answer. We are all unique in our tendencies toward preferences. I like change, but I want it to be on my terms, when I’m ready for it because I’m prepared. I don’t like the drama imposed by erratic change, that’s outside my control. Does anyone else relate? I’ve told God more than once, “I think you have me mixed up with someone else, God. I’m not the girl who likes the roller coaster. Remember, I’m the one who likes merry-go-rounds.” Then God reminds me that He’s got everything under control and it I am going to please him, it’s time to get off the merry-go-round and trust him. Hebrews 11:6 “Without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.”
Someone has asked me if I have friends who encourage me in return because I am all about spreading encouragement to others. The answer is yes, a thousand times yes. I have friends who live out their faith like it says here in Hebrews 6: 18-19 “We take hold of the hope set before us so that we may be greatly encouraged. We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.”
I once asked a college professor how it is that some Christian people seem so solid and nonjudgmental in their interactions and exude radiance in their lifestyle. Then there are others who look like their face would break if they smile. His answer was so simple. He said, “Those who truly live out their faith, will naturally be joyful and live from abundant peace. ” That’s what I want for my life, to live with abundant peace – even when the burden of searching for a new job is ahead of me. Even when the unknown is like a dark cavern ahead. Whatever comes, my goal for that moment is to practice Hebrews 10:23-24 “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds,”
Today is all we’ve got. Tomorrow is the result of how we live it. Ready for today? Let’s get out there!
Because of Grace we Press On