Life is so complex yet so simple. The complexity of life is fostered by busy schedules that involve working to provide a living, being available for loved ones when they are in need, navigating unexpected events such as financial hardships or illness, and using strategies to approach all the personalities you encounter each day. However, the simplicity of life arises when we realize we only have to satisfy the Lord God, no one else. With this one commitment to the Lord, everything else will align.
We often say “yes” to several missions that God never intended. However, the ideas look good and sound like the right thing to do. Sometimes leveling up in God means you must say “no” to the things that are familiar or new “shiny objects” that seem to be productive. We must be careful to set boundaries with the things God has told us to cut off, so we can walk in the assignment to reach our potential in the Lord and influence the people God intended.
For example, maybe you have been a leader in the same volunteer group for 10 years, but the volunteer group was a training ground for a new mission that God wants to use for greater impact. Another example may be that you have a well-paying job that does not fulfill you, but you remain because your lifestyle is comfortable and secure. Nonetheless, your true calling is something that may seem to pay you less, but instead of trusting God’s math when it comes to your finances, you trust your own. Therefore, you remain at your high-paying job which leaves a void when you could trust God to do the immeasurable. Finally, you may have made yourself available to all loved ones at all times, and you believe you are doing the right thing by sacrificing your money, time, and mental capacity to help them. On the contrary, God may be calling you to heal, set a boundary, and focus on the season ahead of you which is to build a relationship with him so he can guide your next move.
While some of us are on the spectrum of “I am doing good things that may not need to be to cut off” others are involved in more obvious matters that they know are not beneficial to themselves or others. Such things could be that you are outgrowing the club and bar scene, but you have peers who want you to come. You may spend your money on items or entertainment that only lasts a while. Still, God wants you to invest your money and resources into real estate or an investment account because he has a plan for how you will use the money or real estate property for his kingdom.
Some of us may be going through hardships such as divorce, depression, financial strain, or have an overwhelming schedule with unimaginable burdens in which we dedicate too much time to worrying. However, we have not given these burdens to the Lord. If we lay down our burdens at God’s feet, and be patient to hear from God through the spiritual conversation of prayer, we will know our next step. We have to recognize we are not the Lord over our lives, but God is. Observe the scripture below that reminds us of the Godly wisdom we ought to seek.
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. For through wisdom your days will be many, and years will be added to your life.”
Proverbs 9:10-11 (NIV)
It can be difficult to let go of things that are familiar to you. We have habits that are hard to break. However, when we truly trust God, we walk in total peace about our decisions because we know a weight was lifted. As we have observable changes in seasons on earth, you should have observable seasonal changes in life. Live with utmost intentions that are aligned with the will of God. Therefore, do not remain in a season that you have outgrown. In Ephesians 5, the Apostle Paul describes how we should "live as children of light" and live by "making the most of every opportunity because the days are evil."
Let us remember that Satan's goal is to steal our time so that instead of focusing on what God has for us, we focus on other things that won't make an impact in God's kingdom. The magnitude of the distraction does not matter for Satan. He is content with you not working intentionally for the Lord and hopes to still more and more of your time, no matter how much. His goal is for you to never reach your full potential in the Lord. Seasons will change and Satan will plot, but God remains steadfast and delivers on his promises. As a result, worry about nothing, but pray over everything (Philippians 4:6). If you have the faith in God, then he will reveal his power to you and work through you. Others will see the work of God in you and be inspired to do the same! Simply put, the light of God cannot be contained.
Today, take time to reflect on the season ahead of you. Is God calling you to something new? Hear from the Lord concerning your next steps. His goal is not that we remain stagnant or idle with our spiritual level, but as we increase in Godly wisdom, we have a greater influence in our circle and those around us. More healing can take place, more people choose to receive salvation, and a legacy of righteousness is left all because you, one person, said “yes” to God.
In summary, life does not have to be as complex as we make it seem. The power of simplicity lies in letting go and letting God have his way. There is prosperity and peace in that place, a place in which you live on purpose for an audience of ONE.
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- God in Seasons Networking Women - Saturday, March 9 at 9:00 AM
- The Power of Simplicity Writers' Retreat - Saturday, March 23 at 9:00 AM (Morning Session)
- The Power of Simplicity Writers' Retreat - Saturday, March 23 at 1:00 PM (Afternoon Session)
- Boho Writers' Mini Retreat for Inspiration Women Authors - Saturday, June 22 at 9:00 AM
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