Every Monday and Wednesday you’ll find a pithy post, perfect for hot summer days when a sip refreshes more than a guzzle.
I-N-S-P-I-R-A-T-I-O-N
inspire [in-spahyuh r]:to fill with an animating, quickening, or exalting influence.
Many of us land on the steps of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writer’s Conference in search of inspiration through newly forged friendships, positive appointments, and dynamic classes. Blue Ridge offers it all, but one bit of truth grounded my grandiose desires this year, and it was this: I can’t make anything happen. God is the Originator of all ideas. If we’re willing to do the hard work to see these ideas come to fruition, we can rest in knowing He goes before us, fully equipping us. He brings favor as He desires. He opens doors, and closes them. All for His glory.
Others inspire us
but only One indwells us infusing our deepest desires with Sovereign power.
Father,
Take the desires you have placed on our hearts and bring them to fruition
for Your glory
in Your ways
and in Your timing,
for all personify a perfection we can trust.
What/who has recently served as an inspiration to you?
Speaking of inspiration, (how’s that for a segue?) I’m thrilled to announce that I’m now a regular contributor to Inspire A Fire! In fact, my first post is today. I’d love for you to hop over and take a look. Mark your calendar (or subscribe via email on Inspire A Fire’s site!) I’ll post the first Monday of every month.
In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps. Proverbs 16:9
My friend, Becky, and I co-lead a Community Bible Class. Our current study by Angela Thomas’ Do You Think I’m Beautiful? is proving to be quite the eye-opener.
In it, Angela shares how our wholeness is found only in God—not spouses, parents, children, friends or stuff.
For today, let’s talk friendships.
Skipper sinking in quicksand. Love Gilligan’s Island!
Just this week, I emailed Teresa, my best friend of 20+ years, sharing a current struggle. In that moment, I felt surrounded by circumstances heavier than quicksand (Does anyone else have Gilligan’s Island flashbacks when you hear that word?) She responded with much wisdom, discernment, and a fresh perspective to boot. Teresa, along with my other friends, are a treasure to me. They are, as Angela describes, vessels of God’s love. They are not, however, placed in our lives to make us whole.
Here are three (of many) ways we could unknowingly be looking to our friends for wholeness rather than God:
1. Without hesitation, we
pick up the phone (or tap on the laptop) to ask for a friend’s advice
instead of first whispering a prayer to the Lord for His wisdom. (James 1:5)
2. We allow friend’s advice to trump the Word of God. Yet another reason to surround ourselves with godly friends. (Proverbs 12:26)
3. We place unrealistic expectations on our friendships. Our friends need to be released from the pressure of making us whole. It’s impossible. They can’t do it, nor should they.
“A girlfriend can be fun, but she cannot be your savior. We need God.” -Angela Thomas
Staying In Step With The Spirit: When we look solely to God to fill those empty spaces in our lives, we draw closer to Him, relying on the unseen Face rather than familiar ones.
Father, thank You for creating places in our lives that only You can fill. Forgive us where we’ve sought out anyone or anything to take Your place. Fill us today with your power, grace, and mercy — not only for our benefit but for others as well. May You receive all the glory!
Is there a particular friend you’re thankful for today? The comment box is the perfect place to give a “shout out!” Or, if you have something to add to the list above, I invite you to share.
{ Day 2 } Staying in Step With the Spirit Via Less Clutter
Cathy Baker
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