Striving?

Are you Striving?

Cease striving and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10a NASB 1995

Indeed, we felt within ourselves that we had received the sentence of death [and were convinced that we would die, but this happened] so that we would not trust in ourselves, but in God who raises the dead.

2 Corinthians 1:9 AMP

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Anything that drives me to the Cross and puts me on my knees, is a good thing. – Charles Stanley

The crisp, rainy October morning caused my morning commute to drag on, as red brake lights peppered the freeway. The lull provided a space of time for me to talk with the Lord about an issue that had been dogging me for weeks. “Father, lately, when I read Your Word, my heart feels like a porcelain sink. Making no penetration and rolling right off. Why? Is it something I’m doing? An issue I’m unaware of? Is it just the enemy?”

I’m not sure when or what I expected to hear from the Lord, but it certainly wasn’t what I “heard” Him speak to my heart (and His quick answer stunned me!). Almost as if the Lord was saying, “It’s about time you asked!

I continued on to work and began my day, which often includes listening to a sermon/podcast softly playing in the background. Today was no exception. But this time, the message stopped me in my tracks. The pastor spoke of “striving” as he quoted the familiar verse of Scripture, Psalm 46:10. Cease striving (be still) and know I AM God.

He went on to share specific truths that included, “I strive when I do not trust (God). And when I’m not trusting, then I’m trying to handle it myself.” Yikes. As if that’s ever a good idea.

I prayed, “God, trust in You is what I write about, talk about, teach about. How could it be that I have stopped trusting You and started trusting in myself and my abilities? How can it be, Lord?” But even as I asked the question, I knew it was true.

Maybe it was the result of a particular trial that has stretched on for several years or even a few of the successes He has provided. Whatever the cause, I repented. Right there among the post-it notes and paperclips. Sin hardens our heart and deafens our ears. Forgetting my own inadequacy apart from Him, and then standing in my own ability, is called pride. If only typed words could convey the blush/embarrassment of my heart.

It’s so easy to do, isn’t it? One small challenge here, a life-altering trial there. It can even be a success here or a mountain-top there, and before we know it, we’re trusting in our own abilities to hold things together. Rather than trusting in Almighty God and His ability to use these dust bunnies, with all our inadequacies, for His glory.

If you see yourself in my (embarrassing/humbling) account, what should you do? Repent. He is faithful to forgive. Acknowledge: God, I don’t just feel inadequate, I am inadequate. I claim YOUR adequacy because of Your Holy Spirit who lives within me.  Forgive me for slipping into self-trust rather than relying on You.

Let’s pray – Thank You, Father, that You are the good, and merciful, and all-powerful Lord of all creation. Nothing is too hard for You. Enable me to rest in Your care, Your plans, Your will and Your perfect timing, and not myself. Cause my inadequacy to drive me to my knees in dependence on You.  Whatever the outcome, You are good and You are faithful. And I trust You. In Jesus name, Amen.

Written by Becky White for the Lord Jesus