The Shame & The Hope
A common mistake is to fall into the trap of believing that the best that the world offers is the best that there is. The Bible teaches us to always consider God's divine design.
“They hid from the Lord God among the trees of the garden. He answered, “I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.” Genesis 3:3-5, 8, 10
We are born into a world that only knows separation from God. A world with good and evil. A world with brokenness and pain. It is important to remember that God's original design was intimacy, provision, and trust.
Where have I listened to the voice that twists the truth and has pushed me to hide from God? God reveal to me any areas of my heart where I have listened to the lies that are not from you.
“But you, Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high.”
Psalms 3:3
When things down go well our natural response is to look down and put up walls. God has a better plan. He invites us to allow Him to be our shelter and look up from a place of knowing we are safe in His mighty arms.
How can you tell if what you are hearing is from God? It lifts you up. It makes you feel safe. God redeems, restores, and offers peace in the midst of difficulty.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6
There is always a choice of whether to trust God or trust yourself alone. Adam and Eve chose to trust a lie and doubt God's love for them. We may know good and evil but we don’t have the full picture of eternity. God alone is worthy, wise, and faithful to guide you to a life you never knew possible.
Jesus where am I leaning on my own plans? I want to trust you with all of me. My path has not been straight but I know that you are the way.
“They have brought disaster upon themselves. Tell the righteous it will be well with them, for they will enjoy the fruit of their deeds.” Isaiah 3:9-10
How we live matters. How much of the pain you have experienced has come from yourself? We are meant to produce fruit and be aware of how we impact others.
“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near...I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me comes one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.”
Matthew 3:2, 11
Have you been baptized by the spirit? Do you feel the power? The actions of Adam and Eve caused separation from God. God not only desires to be with us but promises to surround us with protection, work ahead of us wherever we go, and He offers to live in us through the Holy Spirit.
As lost or alone as you may feel at times, truth tells us that you are only one step away from returning to the arms of the Father. Take a step of faith today. Let Jesus lead you home.