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| My Grace Is Enough |
I have had one of those weary weeks. My energy level is low. My to do list seems big. And, when those two things intersect, the enemy has a field day. He knows my places of vulnerability and it seemed as though every fragment of hurt and weakness rose to the surface saying, “Here I am, remember me?” That's when I needed to call an emergency meeting this morning—alone with God.
Unfortunately it isn't always my first reaction. Too often I slide easily into to self-sufficiency mode and try all the harder in my own strength to do it all. Wrong answer. The harder I try, the more that grace is squeezed out of the equation. I can do it. Of course, I don't really say that out loud, but that's what my heart hears as my brain kicks into survival mode.
Well, I can't do it! I can't do anything without Him who empowers me by His Spirit. I don't have any words of wisdom. I don't have any burden bearing capability. Without His life breathing Spirit I am empty inside, like the chaff of wheat that blows away. And when I try to go it alone, it is like becoming my own savior—like that's going to work!!?
Of course, God is so amazing. He timed a local women's retreat for this past weekend that I just 'happened' to sign up for (I truly believe in His sovereignty—He knew about my need before I did). The first thing I needed to do when I arrived was choose from a variety of mugs to use for the weekend. There it was, shades of pink with the word GRACE imprinted on the side. And, inside the rim the words from 2 Corinthians 12:9: My grace is enough. That evening I came face to face with my lackluster heart and knew I needed to surrender the stuff I had been holding onto.So, as I unpack my baggage this morning, my heart feels a little lighter. I want to rest in His care, knowing that He will see to my needs. And, I want to be sure to kick the enemy in the backside because his condemnations are not valid in the presence of Christ. He is the father of lies and I refuse to be duped by his wily ways.
In Christ, I am forgiven; and so I can forgive. In my weakness, He gives me strength. I am set free by the blood of the Lamb and invited into the presence of God through His righteousness. Because His Grace is enough....
Jeanne
I can relate! Too often, however, I find that things on my "to-do" list don't REALLY have to be done that day. I try to list them in order of priority and do at least the top 3.
ReplyDeleteSo true, Donna. We are so hard on ourselves! I am so glad He gives us a lifetime to figure it out...talk about GRACE!!!!
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Jeanne
Amen! Thanks much for sharing.
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome, Marlene. Hope you are well...it's been awhile since our paths have crossed.
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Jeanne
Praise God that His grace IS enough! But I continue to try to do more, sometimes doing things and taking on responsibility that He hasn't even called me to do. I'm trying to develop a better ear to hear His instructions instead of thinking if it's a good thing, I'm supposed to do it!
ReplyDeleteGreat reminder--thank you.
This was the message I needed to hear this morning. God is amazing. I put off visiting your blog because 'Oh my! I don't have time for it now, I'll save it for later.' I thank the Spirit who lead me here this morning - I will bring my tea and come again. You have been blessed and God blesses others through you. Thank you, Jeanne.
ReplyDeleteGood advice, Donna. I can understand what you're saying, Jeanne. Another comforting post.
ReplyDeleteJeanne - Your inspired words always benefit. Always make one process and think beyond this realm of consciousness.
ReplyDeleteThe world tries so hard to separate us from our Savior...
The stuff, the things, the earthly demands, the enticement to be less than who we are created to be, and desire to fit in.
As you said so clearly..."in our weakness"...yes in OUR weakness we will find HIS Grace.
Earthly Control, Power, Strength, Ego ... an allusion.
As you share: Real strength is in OUR weakness and in HIS LOVE.
Thank you so much Jeanne for a wonderful reminder that we are only truly strong in HIS GRACE.
Thanks for all of your great insights.
ReplyDeleteVonda, I too have had to learn that just because something is good, it may not be best for me. It is so easy to load up on seemingly good projects and opportunities to serve. But, if they take us away from being still in His presence, we have missed part of His blessing.
I remember a quote from Corey Ten boom--she said in one of her books:
If Satan can't make you bad, he will make you busy!
That left a huge impression on me!
May we be 'Jiminy Crickets' for one another in this area....
Hugs,
Jeanne
Thank you, Tom and Sharlet for encouraging me today!
ReplyDeleteJeanne