Abiding is Being Real With God
Over the past several weeks I’ve been writing about what it means for us to “abide.” We’ve looked at several aspects of abiding, such as what abiding is not, what obstacles may be getting in our way from having a closer relationship with God, and some of the benefits of abiding.
Now I’d like to share with you what abiding has looked like for me while going through some of life’s bigger challenges. While they look different for each of us, we all have had challenges. Here is an up close and very personal “snap shot” from one my prayer journals written years ago, the week after my son, Brady, was born with Down syndrome.
Part of my “rhythm” of abiding is the practice of talking with God through my prayer journals. With years of writing in my journal it was natural and easy for me to openly express my hurt and my fear to God. I was already in the habit of getting up early in the morning, reading my Bible, and talking to God in prayer. I didn’t have to spend a lot of time trying to find God. I knew He was already close by my side.
“God, what more can there be? The burden tonight feels so overwhelming. I have momentarily lost my grip on taking things one day at a time, with all the unknowns. The ugliness of “retarded” and “handicapped” seem more than I can bear. Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” doesn’t offer me comfort right now. I know that Christ and I CAN - but I don’t want this burden. Lord, my head and my heart are at war right now. God, I “know” that all things work together for good for those who love the Lord. But God, none of this makes the pain feel any less intense right at this moment. Give this burden to someone else. I don’t want it.”
This is choosing to abide. Being real with God. It’s you being free to share all of your unfiltered thoughts and emotions with the One who made you. God is NOT offended when you are being open and honest with Him. He already knows your heart and what you’re feeling. He wants you to trust Him with your hurts and your doubts. He wants to share your burden. Let God carry you through the challenging times. He wants us all to know and believe this:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:3”
Are you ready to be real with God?