Lately I have been very dissatisfied with the status of my relationship with the Lord. I am so selfish. So shallow. So focused on earthly things. I hunger to grow, both in spiritual maturity and in intimacy with my Father, but much seems to get in the way.
So, my petition has been for the Holy Spirit to do His work in me and get rid of what’s in the way. Oh, how many times can I pray such prayers without expecting what’s coming?
This morning I was continuing in Ephesians 1 and reading in Knowing God by J.I. Packer, a book I’ve been slowly moving through for months now. The passage in Ephesians was Eph 1:14-18 (if you scroll over the reference the passage should pop up).
As I read both, it was as if a light came on. I’ve prayed for growth, and – shock of all shocks – the circumstances of my life have seemed to go haywire leaving Doug and me with issues that we can’t resolve on our own. Problems that seem to have no solution. Struggles that weigh us down.
Days ago a quote from Packer greatly stood out to me, and I even quoted it on the family blog. But, somehow it didn’t all fall into place until today… “There is nothing unnatural…in an increase of temptations, conflicts and pressures as the Christian goes on with God – indeed, something would be wrong if it did not happen.”
Growth happens best when life falls apart. Fun, I know. But necessary. I’ve been praying for growth for a long time, but then I’ve been complaining about the little trials that have come my way. God gives me the perfect avenue for growth, and I hinder it even more by my complaints!
So, I am challenged to have the depth of wisdom, knowledge, and understanding expressed in Eph 1. To open my eyes to the truth of my circumstances and accept growth as it comes – as God sees it must come. No more complaining – just faith and hope in the One who is growing me.
No comments:
Post a Comment