God Colors Outside the Lines
(Inspired by Carlos Santiago’s Take Up Your Cross devotional)
“Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you.” 1 Peter 4:12 NLT
“Fear nothing in the things you’re about to suffer—but stay on guard! Fear nothing! The Devil is about to throw you in jail for a time of testing—ten days. It won’t last forever. “Don’t quit, even if it costs you your life. Stay there believing. I have a Life-Crown sized and ready for you.” Revelation 2:10 MSG
As Christians, we’ve painted a rosy picture of what we believe our lives should be and struggle with understanding that in living a life sold out to Christ we will face some hardships. We need to adjust that expectation and embrace the Words of Apostle Paul who said, “In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”
“At times, Jesus was homeless. At times, people didn’t want to hear what He had to say. At times, people wanted to kill Him. Jesus told His disciples to expect such things.”
When times get rough (and they will) we are often tempted to give up, retreat or walk away from our calling (and even God) and return to what is familiar and seemingly comfortable—whatever we think should resemble who we think we are or what we deserve. However, we must lean in, dig in, and do whatever is necessary to stay the course, knowing that following Christ is worth any hardship we might face; and that our circumstances don’t reflect our relationship with God because He colors outside the lines.
The question is whether we’ve built the spiritual muscles to withstand these challenges. I submit to you that the challenges and hardships help build our resilience, faith, character and hope, thus making us fit for God’s use.
Prayer: Help me to get rid of the pictures I’ve painted in my head about my life in You, and allow You to write the story of my life, which although will have it ups and downs, highs and lows, starts and stops, is all part of Your plan. What I see does not appear as it shall be because You Color Outside the Lines. So, Lord help me to always find the words to pray, not my will but Your will be done!!
Love You All to Life! ❤️
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