Discernment. Timing. Patience. Wisdom.
Ever have one of those days (weeks, years, or perhaps life?) when you helplessly watch an intruder gobble up your sustenance–not kibbles, but your sustenance of time, emotional energy, physical stamina, spiritual refreshment, or mental health?
Intruders can come slowly over a course of time, or they can arrive abruptly, loaded with consequences for those who dare to deny them their demands.
One intruder that arrived abruptly in my life was the diagnosis of Type 1 (Juvenile) Diabetes. At the age of 43, I went from enjoying a carefree, independent, healthy lifestyle to becoming an insulin-dependent-finger-pricking-carb-counting-mind-numbing human food calculator. Another uninvited intruder came more gradually in my life and has recently taken up residence–its name is midlife; pre-menopause (or more aptly put, “mental-pause”).
While I can’t rid myself of those unwanted guests, I can learn to live victoriously with them, understanding the dynamics of what it is like to adjust my lifestyle to their intrusion.
But some uninvited guests that devour my sustenance come by my own hand and unknowing invitation–often feeding on things I neglect to guard.
These intruders can be a life with no margins, over-eating, people pleasing, or perfectionism…. No matter what name they go by, the effects are the same: enslavement.
It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. (Galatians 5:1-3)
So, what are the intruders eating away at your sustenance? Now is a great time to take inventory and do something about them.
Wow, what a great way to look at life. We know that ultimately God is in control, but at times especially when I feel out of control it is difficult to trust. Thanks for making me think!
Thanks, Felice. And yes, I agree — when life seems out of control, my first go-to isn’t always the Lord, but whatever I can do to amend the situation and make myself feel comfortable. But that is why walking with the Lord is a journey. He changes, molds, and shapes us little bit by little bit, enlarging our faith as we learn what it is like to rest in Him. I’m so thankful He cares that much!