Day 150 - More big believing
Scripture focus: My child, don't lose sight of common sense and discernment. Hang on to them, for they will refresh your soul. They are like jewels on a necklace. They keep you safe on your way, and your feet will not stumble. You can go to bed without fear; you will lie down and sleep soundly. You need not be afraid of sudden disaster or the destruction that comes upon the wicked, for the Lord is your security. He will keep your foot from being caught in a trap. Proverbs 3:21-26 NLT
Common sense and discernment provide us protection from fantasy living and delusional thinking. Common sense allows us to dream big without making dream fulfillment our life's goal. Discernment balances our thinking. It calms our minds. Discernment reminds us that man may plan, but God determines the outcome.
Hanging on to common sense and discernment frees us from needless disappointment. They keep us safe and progressing. We realize our part in God's plans - step as he speaks - and we leave the destination up to him. We go to bed without fear, because our hope isn't hanging on an outcome - but on God himself. We sleep soundly because most of what is really important that needs to happen for dream fulfillment is in God's hands, not ours. We rest soundly because we understand that we're his servants, and our only charge is to follow his lead. Our feet don't stumble because we're not running ahead of the will of God. And when we do stumble, God's made provision for that possibility too.
Sudden disaster and destruction may be scary, but they don't have to produce shame assaults on our spirit. When we do have regrets about our shameful ways and iniquity, we know where to go for healing and restoration. Honesty enables us to realize that sometimes we've behaved badly, even wickedly. But even our predisposition to fall short of the glory of God is nothing more than an encounter with God's mercy and grace for those who understand the character of God. The Lord provides us security because he intercedes on our behalf. We may flirt with the trap, but by the grace of God, he provides us a way out. Big believing isn't dependent upon better behaving. It hinges on believing in the one God sent to save.
Trusting in ourselves and our own strength to fulfill big dreams is foolishness. And really hard work. It leads to soul dehydration, feelings of insecurity, serious stumbling, fearful living, fitful sleeping, destruction, and serious entrapments.
Which kind of life sounds more appealing?
Recommended reading: 2 Samuel 13 in the morning; John 17 in the evening
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