Fresh Air

“You do not have a future with this ministry division and I’m not sure you have a future with any other area within this organization.” These unexpected words hit me like a slap in the face. I was shocked, hurt, and confused.

On the drive home, I poured my heart out to God. Then it was as if God said to me, “Trust me, I am in control. I have a plan, a good plan, just trust me.” It felt like a blast of fresh air filled the car. I was released from my conflicted state — my focus on leaders and circumstances — to a place of anticipation.

Through that experience, I realized that difficult moments are an opportunity.

Jesus taught that, when His true followers embraced His teachings, their lives would be characterized by freedom. This freedom and sense of wellbeing would not be based on circumstances or people, but on faith in the truth of God’s sovereign plan and purposes.

The real test of the nature of our faith comes, not in the blue-sky moments, but in the midst of the storm. God has ordered the universe, takes down nations, and raises up leaders according to Isaiah 40:21-26. He is capable. True security can only come from His hands. This is the paradox: true freedom comes from submission in willful obedience to Christ as His followers (Romans 12:1-2).

Father, I release my fears, my confusion, and my hurts. By faith I want to thank you that you are sovereign, you are good, and you do have a good plan. I realize I need to embrace what is true from your Word and follow you in obedience. I desire to walk in freedom today. May the fresh air of your presence fill my life! Amen.

Go Deeper — Read Philippians 2:12-13. Does freedom characterize your life right now? Are there areas, fears, anger, plans or people that you need to release? Are you willing to place your trust in God who has a good plan in the midst of circumstances that do not seem good?