Ten Simple Lessons that Affirm God’s Nearness and Involvement
Lately, I’ve felt my life is a random jumble of whatever. For example, I would love a clear directive on how I’m to express my new role as the wife of a District Superintendent, and I’m not seeing it. In addition, if my sweet Pastor husband and I could discover a consistent schedule of some sort, I would be thrilled. Honestly? I don’t think his new job works that way. Plus, I struggle to eat well on a consistent basis which isn’t beneficial for my health.
However, as I attempted to process this new non-rhythm, I discovered God is still near and very much involved. Perhaps He doesn’t reveal all the things I wish He would. And it’s possible He’s instructing me in ways I’m not fond of. But He is most definitely good. Allow me to share ten random lessons God has taught me recently.
Weird Weather
One. Anywhere you live in the United States has weird weather in March and April. We all just need to get used to it. Enjoy that last cold blast and wear your favorite sweater one more time. Take advantage of the sunshine and enjoy the first few days of shorts and sandals. Then snuggle up in a blanket when the temperature drops and delight in how cozy it feels.
Explore
Two. The more you explore, the more confident you become exploring. Whereas this is one of those “Duh” lessons, it bears mentioning. Sometimes, dare I say it… as we get older, we hesitate to move out of our comfort zone. When we take a risk, be it big or small, we become more comfortable with taking another risk. We must work at remaining young at heart. We still live in a big wide world to discover!
Children at the Zoo
Three. One of the best parts of the zoo is listening to small children. I love the zoo. I enjoy watching the animals play, swim, dig, burrow, or whatever they do. However, when you are privy to the excitement and wonder of small children at the zoo, you encounter delight exponentially.
Growing Older
Four. Growing old really is not for sissies. We hear that phrase, and when we are younger, we roll our eyes. I wouldn’t call myself old, but I have reached the age when I totally understand the truth of the proclamation. For those of you who are below the age of 60, I give you an official heads-up. You really should do those crazy nonsense exercises; they really will keep you nimble and strong.
Hard Conversations
Five. Be brave and have hard conversations. We avoid saying difficult things because we fear a negative outcome. I learned that even if the outcome isn’t everything you hoped for, and even if new difficult questions come to the surface, you gain peace. You no longer hold secrets and so you no longer carry the weight of the difficulty alone.
Comfort
Six. God is our comfort, period. Recently, I became aware I tend to seek comfort in things that are temporary instead of going straight to God. We don’t find true, consistent comfort in food, new clothes, fitting in with the neighbors, success, vacations, a larger income, or being admired. Our comfort is in Christ alone. Can I hear an amen?
Baseball
Seven. A baseball game on a Sunday afternoon is an excellent way to Sabbath. I found myself relaxed and energized as I watched the game. I enjoyed being outside, laughing, cheering someone else on, and being away from the normalcy of my days.
Satan’s Lies
Eight. Satan whispers the same lies to us our whole lives long. I recently read Jennie Allen’s new book, The Lie You Don’t Know You Believe. As I studied and journaled, I realized, I fall for the same lie now that I fell for when I was a teenager, a college student, newly married, and a young mom. Each of us can demolish the lie and the stronghold the enemy creates through the power of the Holy Spirit in us.
Kingdom of God
Nine. The call of the gospel is to inhabit the Kingdom of God. I just listed several things that are good gifts of this world: weather variety, exploration, animals, children, moving our bodies, community, food, new clothes, vacations, and baseball. God has given us these treasures. However, our life is not about these amazing things. Our life is to be about seeing God, knowing God, and experiencing the presence of God while we live in this world. Though we currently exist within the confines of this world, we are privileged to experience God with us at all times. In addition, we are empowered to share His love and grace with others, and to invite them into God’s Kingdom as well.
All Things
Ten. God wastes nothing. Paul tells us in Romans 8:28, “All things work together for good…” Paul didn’t say everything you endure is good. He tells us God uses everything we encounter as we journey through life. He will use “all things” to form us to be who He created us to be. God is crafting an amazing transformation in each of us, every day, all the time, for His glory, by His grace.
List God’s Goodness
David says in Psalm 31, “But I trust in you, LORD; I say, ‘You are my God.” The course of my life is in your power; rescue me from the power of my enemies and from my persecutors. Make your face shine on your servant; save me by your faithful love…How great is your goodness, which you have stored up for those who fear you. In the presence of everyone you have acted for those who take refuge in you.” (Psalm 31:14-19, CSB)
When we live trusting in God, we live in His goodness. He has the power to save us, rescue us, restore us, and transform us. He is our faithful God. Sometimes, we must pause and make a list of His goodness to us, the fun good and the difficult good as well. Perhaps my lessons aren’t random after all. Maybe God is using all things to help me better see His Kingdom in me.
This Game of Life Photo by Erik Mclean on Unsplash
