Everyone has a different story. Some stories are similar to others, but I find beauty in the fact that each of us owns our story. As I reflect on what my life has written so far, I can find beauty in some of my darkest times. I look back and see how God carried me through so much hardship and temptation. During these struggles, it was near impossible to understand God's plan and try to be on board. I came to a point where I had no where else to go, but God. I can just imagine his face when I was on my knees crying out to him and asking for him to take complete control of my life. Once I completely surrendered I was able to see more clearly, Christ at work in my life.Since then, it has been my desire to know God's heart. He continues to speak to me through his word, allowing me to know him through his promises.
God's Promises
"Your salvation requires you to turn back to me and stop your silly efforts to save yourselves. Your strength will come from settling down in complete dependence on me" - Isaiah 30:15
"Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you." - Hebrews 13:5
"Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart." - Psalm 37:4
How do we discover the heart of God?
I can imagine God saying to his children, "I love you, you love me, meet me at the bible." The way we interact with the bible is how we perceive the author. The more I've gotten to know God and who he is throughout scripture, my eyes have been opened to the almighty, powerful, gracious and loving God he was, is and will be.
Hebrews 4:12 tells us "the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." I have found so much truth in this. More often than not I will find myself doing my bible study and the scripture pertains to what is happening at that exact moment in my life. Then I will go to church and I have found the scripture being used to meet me exactly where I am as well. The word of the Lord is ALIVE and active.
2 Peter 1:3-9 tells us the best promise of all. Through Christ's power, he has given us everything we need for life. He has given us the free gift of taking part in a life with God after we turn our back on a world full of lust and sin.
God allows us choose freedom and life, over death. If you feel that you don't know the heart of God, this can begin to show you the glimpse of how gracious God is and how much he wants you to give your life to Him. He desires to own our life.
As I continue to write my life story and realize the bondage that Christ continues to free me from and the life he has to offer, I can't help but to long and desire the same for each of you. Freedom is a choice. The choice may not always be easy, but Christ is always on one end of that choice, calling your name.
Challenge
Reflect on 2 Peter 1:3-9 in your journal.
What does this scripture mean to you?
What all does this scripture say that God has given to us?
What things should we add to our faith, and what will God multiply?
What is the result of not adding these things?