For many, there comes a time when we realize that our love for another human being may not be enough to meet the need before us. We strive to do the impossible to overcome the obstacles. Self-sacrifice comes easily the more intense our love. But then one day we realize that we are not making progress. In fact we may very well be retracing the same steps. We may also discover that we’ve lost our very essence somewhere along the way.
As I write, memories take me back to the beginning – the little girl. Unwilling to relive those moments I fast forward through a variety of life experiences – all took me to the “end of myself”, that place where my love was just not enough. An overcomer, I had raced through my early years confident that there would be no obstacle that I could not handle. The Queen of Do Overs, as I like to call that earlier version of myself, I believed that nothing was impossible. I believed that with hard work and a determined mind, I could find the solutions. I can do it myself!
Do you relate? What has taken you to that place? Broken relationships? Caregiving for a loved one? Financial crisis? Are you there today?
I write inspired by words spoken by a good friend yesterday. You see, Terica’s husband was undergoing critical heart procedures. In the waiting room, at the end of her capabilities, she cried out to her Jesus for His healing and comfort. She shared later that she just could not imagine going through this without her faith – her relationship with Jesus Christ. It took years of experiences before I discovered what Terica knows so well – that endless supply of love – a love that never fails – the love of God the Father. “Love never fails…” 1 Cor 13:8
At any given point in time we may find ourselves walking through a place of impossibility. Instinctively we will seek to comfort our hurt by using our best practices. Today I am compelled to encourage you to Pray First. I’m reminded of the these lyrics sung by Christy Nockels:
“Let it be Jesus the first name that I call. My song inside the storm.”
I’ve learned that rather than wait until we’ve exhausted all our options, we are to pray first. Yes, we may have some solutions in mind. I believe that God loves to hear our plans. As we go before Him with a coachable, teachable spirit, He will guide our steps. No matter where you are on your spiritual journey, this post is for you.
My prayer for you…
Heavenly Father, Lord I thank and praise You for who You are. Your love is amazing – and is more than enough for any circumstance we face. I lift those reading this message today. Whatever their circumstance I pray you meet them at their place of need. If they don’t know you Jesus – I pray you surround them with the Spiritual mentors that would speak into their lives. For those of us who walk with you Lord, remind us through your Holy Spirit – to seek you first – to take hold of that mustard seed of faith and trust You for the outcome. I thank You that as believers we are a work-in-progress. There is always an opportunity to Do Over because of You and not in our own strength. All this I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen
Photo by Artem Kovalev on Unsplash
Maggie Sabatier-Smith
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