Seeing and Admitting Our Condition

And behold, there was a woman who had a spirit of infirmity eighteen years, and was bent over and could in no way raise herself up. Luke 13:11 (New King James Version)


For eighteen years a woman’s body was bent over due to a spirit of infirmity. It was apparent to any who knew her that something was amiss and until Jesus intervened in her life her condition remained unchanged with little hope of improvement. Hers was an obvious and noticeable problem. What of the many who are “bent over” internally? From all outward accounts they seem to have it all together but if they allow you to see beyond the surface one comes to realize their spirit and emotions are far from straight and strong. What does one do when this is their truth? When this is their life?

In the past few years, God has been showing me the steps to take in order to begin standing straight internally and I freely share those steps with you now. First, admit to yourself there is a problem. Something is askew and you have to be willing to see that. Second, desire change. For some of us, what we have grown use to as a way of life has become comfortable and the thought of change can be scary. Yet, desire for change eventually becomes stronger than the satisfaction of remaining unchanged. Third, be willing to ask for help. Learning to open up to a trusted person and accept the truth that will come from advice given takes time to develop but is necessary. Fourth, see that the internal problems may be brought on by physical conditions. Schedule an appointment with a doctor to see whether or not this is a possibility. Fifth, daily ask God to show you practical steps you can take in applying His Word and other truths to your life that will make a difference.

These are not steps that one crosses off their list as they are taken. These are steps that continue to be a part of your life as you work through your weaknesses, places of vulnerability, and areas in need of change. In a week’s time I return to all of them in one way or another. There have been times when friends have admitted to thinking that at one time they thought I had it all together. The more we talked the more they saw my frailties and humanness. I wouldn’t want it any other way, because any noticeable change will be attributed to God.

These devotionals have never been meant to tell someone all the right answers or to make others think I have things all figured out. They are simply an invitation for others to join me on what many times feels like a roller coaster ride of varying speeds and heights. Walk beside me and let’s grow together.

Father, I realize now that it isn’t about appearing strong but being real. Help me to fully celebrate the victories and willingly share the struggles. Under Your care, amen.

The Motions - Matthew West
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OHUppFNjy5E

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.