When Things Get Taxing

Some days are more taxing than others, especially if you wait to the last minute or don’t plan properly.  But some are taxing regardless of what you do and how you may prepare yourself. What you thought would happen didn’t and a gazillion (that’s a whole lot) of other things pop up yelling for your attention. And these don’t even have to be bad things, just unplanned ones. How do you respond when this happens?

I am getting much better at stopping, taking a breath while looking to God, and then considering how to proceed. But there are definitely times when I kick into an action gear without engaging my spirit with God’s Spirit. In these times it is like a heavy truck running downhill without a brake or maybe even a steering wheel. When this happens I am trying to deal with the situation in my own strength. While I know this is not what I am supposed to do, it does happen and I struggle with it at times. It is in these times when I am so thankful not only for stop signs but for a supernatural brakeman and driver.

This morning I enjoyed a quiet time of working through my prayer sheet and laying those people and things which were on my heart and mind before God. Also, it was a time of laying my hopes and dreams before Him again, asking His continued direction and thanking Him for His plans and His promises to fulfill those plans. This is so much better and restful than trying to control a runaway truck. God may not level the steep slopes or even shine a bright light on the path ahead, but He has promised to give me the power to go up and down those steps and to give me the light I need for my path. I may not have super-duper highbeams, but I have something better -- beams from on high.

Today in “Jesus Calling” by Sarah Young (4/15)

Trust Me, and don’t be afraid. Many things feel out of control. Your routines are not running smoothly. You tend to feel more secure when your life is predictable. Let Me lead you to the rock that is higher than you and your circumstances. Take refuge in the shelter My wings, where you are absolutely secure.

When you are shaken out of your comfortable routines, grip My hand tightly and look for growth opportunities. Instead of bemoaning the loss of your comfort, accept the challenge of something new. I lead you on from glory to glory, making you fit for My kingdom. Say yes to the ways I work in your life. Trust me, and don’t be afraid.

“Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord, is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation.” Isaiah 12:2

From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe. I long to dwell in your tent forever and take refuge in the shelter of your wings. Psalm 61:2-4

But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord. 2 Corinthians 3:18 (NKJV)