His Choice For Me

I am the LORD, and there is no other; besides Me there is no God. I will gird you, though you have not known me. Isaiah 45:5

So often in Scripture we are told to do certain things. Here are a few of those commands: put on the whole armor of God, walk in the spirit, study to show yourself approved, forgive one another, etc.... How precious it is then to come across a verse that shows me something that God does for me. He girds me.

When I first read this verse, I thought of girding as being clothed or bound. The dictionary helped to expand my definition. It gave me the idea of encircling, making fast, surrounding, preparing, and providing. That’s quite a list! God literally gets me ready for reach day's duties, battles, adventures, and encounters.

There are at least three things the Bible tells me that He girds me with. They are strength, gladness, and power. These are the very things He equips me with as I step into another day of living in a fallen world. They are the tools I can use to come against ANY thing that wants to steal my joy, peace, and security.

I find one of the biggest joy stealers in my life has to do with times when people let me down. Many times they are not even aware they are doing it. My expectations run high and I make them a source they weren't meant to be. It is at that point I can choose the gladness God has girded me with or I can gird myself with doubts, discouragement, self condemnation, self pity, and anger. It becomes a "place" I choose to visit. And though it may be familiar to me, it is not comfortable, encouraging, or good.

I found myself returning to that place just a couple weeks ago. Once I realized it I prayed one of those simple prayers that become so powerful and life changing. I told God I didn't want to go there or stay there. Instead I wanted to resort to the shelter of His wings.

I am not exaggerating in the least when I say my demeanor, mood, emotions, and outlook instantly changed. I felt like a huge weight had been lifted off my shoulders. I see now that I always have a choice where I choose to abide and with what I choose to be girded.

Father, You have already chosen the right garments for me to wear and the right place for me to abide. Thank you for not allowing my own choices to feel good. Amen.