A Shift for the Good

But God, Who comforts and encourages and refreshes and cheers the depressed and the sinking, comforted and encouraged and refreshed and cheered us by the arrival of Titus. 2 Corinthians 7:6 (Amplified Bible)

I have a list of people in my life whose names could easily be slipped into this verse. This morning, God and I have reviewed them. I am touched by the fact that the God of all comfort chooses to many times comfort and encourage us through one another. The ones He has brought into my life have been used of Him to not only comfort me, but to instruct me, mold me, and leave a lasting impression upon me. I value the impact they have made on my life. Conversations with them still play from time to time in my memory. Even decades later I can still recall their facial expressions, tone of voice, and warm embraces. Spending time with them was and still is a high light for me. Any more though, those times are rare. For most of the people I am referring to are geographically removed from me. God has wisely made that the case.

He knows how easily I can become comfortable in a relationship and allow it to dominate my thinking and capture all of my attention. If not guarded, my heart can be torn between looking to people instead of to God as my primary source for many things. That is a sure recipe for stunted growth and hindered relationship with Him. For most of my Christian life I will admit to that being my greatest struggle. And I have absolutely no doubt there are many in the body of Christ who see that as a truth for themselves as well.

This morning, as I listened to Sandi Patty’s rendition of the song “Made Me Glad” it occurred to me that I am at a place in my life whereby no one is any longer in competition with God for the attention of my heart. While I still value them highly, God has finally captured my heart and affections. I am no longer looking for an individual to fix me, heal me, deliver me, or constantly be there for me. Will they still play a part in my life? Absolutely. And there will be times I seek their advice and counsel. But relationship with them can no longer be my main craving and goal.

While the transition has been painful at times I am finally seeing the beauty of what God has been doing. He has been wooing me to Himself as He has caused unhealthy attachments to fall away. What I thought would crush me has actually freed me. Although I will still falter at times, I know a shift has taken place and the journey will never be the same. For once in my life, I rejoice at such change!

Father, it has taken over 34 years for You to bring me to this point. Thank you for your patience and persistence. With gratitude and joy I proclaim that I am yours! Amen.