Ok, I admit it. Sometimes I'm a little gross. I've experienced a lot of GI issues...so these funny analogies just come out. Pardon the pun.
LESSON #1: WHAT GOES IN EVENTUALLY COMES OUT.
It’s true on every level! If you fill up with Eminem or you’re watching HBO with 500 F-bombs…why are you surprised when you can’t control your thoughts or your tongue? It's the old adage: Garbage in, Garbage out.
However, the opposite is also true. If you think on these things…"whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable”, these things will eventually make their way out of you. Your thoughts lead to actions. You become what you ruminate on and let camp out in your head.
My point: GUARD WHAT YOU LET IN. Set your heart on the right stuff. What comes out of you on the other end of that will be much more pleasant! <wink>
LESSON #2: KNOW WHEN TO PUSH. KNOW WHEN TO WAIT.
Did I just say that out loud? Yes. Let’s face it, if things aren’t the “right timing,” straining occurs.
Ouch! And isn’t it true in life? God has the big picture. His timing is perfect. So lean in. Check in to see whether you need to push through a little difficulty, or if it’s just not His timing.
If you push when it’s not His timing, you are in for a lot of pain. It’s unnecessary. And who wants unnecessary pain? Not me!
On the other hand, giving up too early when you experience a little difficulty isn’t good. You miss out on the character God wants to develop in you. Perhaps God is trying to infuse patience and perseverance into you. Besides, if you give up, you miss the result of your hard work. The goal goes unmet.
So check in. Ask God whether He wants you to push through to the breakthrough...or whether He wants you to wait on Him and complete things in a different timeframe.
LESSON #3: POOP OR GET OFF THE POT!
God wants to use you. Isn't that wild? That's like a master chef inviting you to play in the kitchen. If you are willing, God wants to use you in someone’s life, in the life of your church, and in this world He’s created. He has a plan and a purpose for your life.
However, if you refuse to do what God has invited you to do, He’s going to get somebody else to do it. This isn't a threat. Its just the way it is: you missing an amazing opportunity.
God's purposes are advancing. In fact, Scripture says the gates of hell will not prevail. The Kingdom of God will literally storm the gates of hell. Those gates won’t be able to withstand it! Don’t you want to be part of that? It’s a great call and an inspiring way to live!
Here's the secret: Listen to God, then obey. It’s that simple. It’s not easy, but it’s simple. This is your best shot at the most joy-packed life. However, if you choose to go your own way, realize you’re gonna get kicked off the pot eventually.
Don't let God give the blessing He intended for you to someone else.
It's time to choose my friend. Poop, or get off the pot. And I say enthusiastically...if it’s God’s voice and timing, then POOP already!
Joyfully,
Rachel B.