How do you think and process thoughts?
We all have a pattern, so what is your natural tendency?
Do you focus on how you might be better, or do better? Do you look for ways to improve?
Have you said this to yourself before; “I’ve worked so hard and helped so many, when will it be my turn to receive?”
Perhaps you’ve even thought, I wonder if God is pleased with me because of all I’ve done?
Can you imagine what it would be like to know without a doubt, that your heavenly father could not love and adore you more than he does right now? How would that change your thinking?
I couldn’t be more excited to be involved in this new semester’s small group book study. When my friend and co-leader Rachel brought me the book from her bookshelf entitled The Cure and handed it to me, my initial thought was “Oh dear, I have to read another book.” I find it very interesting how excited I am to be leading each semester, but that ironically means I will be reading books to evaluate our topic of discussion. Whatever that initial response actually is, I do know that it is a lie, because as soon as I opened that book and began to read it, I could not put it down.
I have labeled myself a non-book reader for so many years and because of that it has put negative thought patterns in my mind about reading books. Let’s just say I am taking care of that right now and squashing the lie; “I love reading, and I am an excellent book reader, in Jesus Name!” I digress. The book talks about a choice we all get to make when we decide to follow Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. One path laid before us is entitled Pleasing God, or better referred to as the road of good intentions. There is another road we can choose; the road of grace, or Trusting God.
The concept that we simply get to choose to trust God, and know that He could not love us more than He does right now, is a breath of fresh air. There is not one thing we can do to earn His approval that His son Jesus Christ did not already die to give us.
The road of good intentions describes “a giant building looming ahead that looks like a hotel. As you get closer, we can see writing in bronze lettering across the front “Striving Hard to Be All God Wants Me To Be.” Above the doorknob, a small, ornate plaque is bolted to the heavy wooden door. Self-Effort it reads.” This was an excerpt from the first chapter. It goes on to describe everyone inside that building is beautifully manicured, with big smiles on their faces, and all saying we are fine, we are doing just fine! There is one caveat to be invited into the room though, you must put on the mask that is handed to you at the front door.
Do you find yourself putting on your mask when you wake up in the morning? How heavy is that mask becoming?
I am not going to spoil this Book for you, but I will give you a hint and say the road to Trusting God is a page turner! All are welcome to the room of Trusting God, there are no perfect people in that room because there are no perfect people anywhere.
Rest friends and know you and I are exactly where God wants us. Keep seeking and surrendering to Him, and He will take care of you and all your needs.
Thank you Lord for your boundless grace and for your words today.
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