If I'm honest… I had become a complainer. There was a time when everything in my life was set the way I liked it — my home, my decor, my dedicated place of prayer, the stillness, and the quiet. I controlled my environment, and I determined who came and when. Because it was my house, period!
And then… Father God disrupted everything. Within 60 days, every comfort I knew was gone. I felt like a fish out of water. I was disoriented, I felt totally unsettled and out of place. And all I kept hearing in my spirit was: "No matter where you are, learn how to remain in My presence." Looking back, I actually thought I understood what that meant. Total disclosure, I didn't.
The truth is, when everything shifted, I struggled, and I couldn't find my footing. I no longer had my "place" or time with God the way I was used to. And instead of pressing in… instead of pursuing Him… I complained.
Now, to be fair, the new situation (not only physical, but spiritual) I found myself in wasn't bad — but it was challenging. It stretched me far and wide, and in the process, it revealed things in me I didn't realize were there. Looking back, I appreciate that very tough season because it taught me to love more compassionately. How to pray from a different place — not selfishly, but sincerely and out of unconditional love. It taught me to keep pressing in and pursuing God… even when I didn't feel like myself.
During that season, and it was a long one, like Jacob wrestled… I wrestled too. But this year, after much-needed revelation, truth, and surrender, I can say this with complete confidence: I have purposefully chosen to be both grateful and thankful.
My choice is not because everything feels good… But because God is good, plain and simple. When I look back on that season, I smile... I realize — God never left me, not once. He was gracious, kind, long-suffering, patient, most merciful, and ever so loving. In all honesty, I may not have favored the situation… But today, I am better because of it.
Have you ever had your world turned upside down — only to discover the favor of God right in the middle of it? His blessings flowing, and His love ever-present, in what you thought was a mess?
Take it from me: Learn how to remain in the presence of God, no matter where you find yourself. God promised He would never leave us nor forsake us… and I can tell you from experience, He won't. I often say that perspective is the game-changer, and that obstacles, when viewed correctly, are often opportunities. In this season of my life, what I thought was pure disruption… was actually a personal invitation. And moving out of my house wasn't the end of my comfort — it was the beginning of me being aligned in God's will. You see, God used it to place me right in the middle of His will. How about that?
The next time there is a major shift in your life, and you feel out of sorts — while it's good to inquire of the Lord, don't be so quick to complain; instead, trust God, and allow peace to be still. God will provide clarity. He said His sheep know His voice, and another they will not follow.
