God teaches us and a lesson I have learned lately is about prayer and faith.
Several years ago Mark and I talked to God about us moving to Honduras full time...And for several years we have wondered why that has not happened for us...We love it here, we love the people, the work and feel so connected to God's activity in this place.
Many times over the past several years we have heard people tell us we didn't have enough faith, that if we truly had faith we would move and trust God to provide. These statements made to/at us have made me question my faith in God and I have felt weak.
It has been a struggle, but through the confusion God has revealed a truth to me about prayer and the Spirit's activity in my life.
I have learned through waiting on God and some readings on prayer, I have come to believe what I was acting on was not a lack of faith in God, but the Spirit moving to tell me "No, I know better, I see a big picture you do not, wait on me."
I now understand my hesitation is not a lack of faith but a warning placed within me by the Spirit and I am wise to listen.
I have come to realize that faith and my own desires for something to happen are two very different things. My prayers can either be motivated by my wants and desires and what "I" think God wants for me or really wanting to do the will of God. I can make myself believe they are one in the same but often they are not, because even when what I want seems to be "good" God is always looking out for me and shows me His love and protection in all things. I praise Him for this and how he has protected and guided me and continues to help me navigate this crazy life of mine!!!!
"Be still and know that I am God"
4 comments:
Lori, To be the judge and jury of another's faith walk is not ours, thank God. We have neither the authority nor the insight for such a task. Yours is a big decision in the scheme of life but all of life is filled with these little deaths that we have to die to self and learn how to wait on that still small voice.The din and clamor of the enemy tries desperately to drown it out and much to our distress it often does. Personally, I ask God to be a stumbling block to anything that will not glorify Him and further me along His journey, no matter how badly I want it. May you be so filled with His Spirit that you see and hear with your hearts ability only. Love, Peggy
For what its worth, it sounds to me like you've got it right. I'm glad you posted this; it was just what I needed today, a word about waiting on God's timing and not jumping the gun because of what I'm "sure" is God's will. That may not be exactly what you meant here, but that is what it spoke to me. Thanks.
I really needed to hear these words. I often find myself questioning my own faith and trust in God. Sometimes it's so hard to just wait for God's guidance. I often wonder what God's plan is for me, and why he's chosen to bring me to the place that I'm at right now. You helped remind me that I don't need to worry nor do I need to wonder. All I need to do is 'be still' because my God is near, and has nothing but great plans for me.
I love you Aunt Lori!
Carly
Lori...was it you or Mark who went to preaching school? I know the answer, of course, but you are really giving lots of food for thought on our lives from things you are learning. Thanks for sharing and being an inspiration to others with the things you are learning.
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