“Don’t get your socks wet.”
“Adley, stay out of the water.”
“Don’t go over there, it’s wet.”
These footprints are evidence that someone wasn’t listening this particular morning…and you know, it didn’t frustrate me, because I often see evidence in my own life of the ways I didn’t listen to His plan, and I see why it matters now- even though back then I was too short-sighted to see all the pieces. Or prices.
I didn’t know what He was going to do with that season in our life, but sometimes we all wear wet socks or wander in deserts or (fill in the blank) when we don’t listen.
This is hard to admit out loud, or on display, but I knew I was stepping outside the will of God for our life when I pursued something last year. I was being stubborn and willful, and I wanted God to want us to have what I wanted us to have, so I prayed about it a lot – trying to change His mind.
It didn’t work, I wasn’t able to change His mind, so I charged full speed ahead, because why shouldn’t He want us to have this shiny new thing?
The truth is, I don’t know what different thing God had in store because I plugged my ears and went my own way. What I do know is it would have been better. I wouldn’t have prayed desperate prayers as I found myself in a situation I couldn’t handle.
I also know His grace is sufficient – not that I would recommend ever ignoring what He’s put on your heart just because of grace. No, and that’s not what I went into it thinking. But on this side, having asked for forgiveness and admitted my mistakes, I know He is still for me, He still loves me. And He knows better for me than I always accept. He is a good God, with good plans for us.
So, next time you are up against a shiny new thing, or a comfortable old thing, and asking God what to do – learn from my experience, when He answers, don’t ignore Him. It isn’t in your best interest, which I learned the hard way.
Until next time,
A Prayer to Share:
Dear God,
May You soften our hearts and minds and help us to hear Your voice and Your calling. Help us develop an obedient character, that pursues You and Your plan for each and every day of our lives. Thank You for being patient with us when we miss the mark.
In Jesus’ Name,
Amen.
Regina Walker 