I feel a bit odd writing based off of a podcast two weeks in a row, but as I sit at my writing desk at an elevation of 6,000 feet I can't seem to hold my figurative tongue—or rather, literal fingers on the keypad. My heart is in a beautiful vice, gripped so fiercely by the love of God that I never long to be free of it.
Ann, your voice from minute one was soothingly significant, bringing with it the peace of God in audible form. Your honesty and vulnerability brought to light things in my life that God had yet to put His finger on. Reinforcing the importance of intimacy with Jesus and full obedience to Him—as if on a repetitious record playing in the subconscious of my mind.
Twenty-five minutes in I found myself tear stained, sitting silently in a Walmart parking lot hoping that no one would see me. At minute thirty-five I had driven home rushed down to our basement level and told my husband how much I need him, just in case he needed reminding. At minute forty-seven I silenced my phone and took one of my "home circling" prayer walks with Jesus asking Him to examine my life in fresh, new ways—keeping me close to Him through every season. At minute sixty I was telling Him in no uncertain terms that I wasn't meant to do life alone and as much as I love feeling self-sufficient—enjoying the Jesus and Jamie camaraderie—I also need deep meaningful friendships always.
A simple "thank you" feels like a fallen leaf swept through the air in all of it's autumn glory—yet lacking the life it was truly meant to hold. Yet I say it in the most heartfelt way imaginable, thank you.
Your story matters.
It's funny how one persons story of obedience to God can bring to life the word of God in fresh new ways. Hearing one's perspective, struggles, triumphs and victories reminds me that God is in it all. He takes us by the hand in every season, leading us safely to the destination He has planned for our lives. It reminds me of a verse in Jeremiah 31:9 MSG:
"I take their hands and lead them, lead them to fresh flowing brooks, lead them along smooth, uncluttered paths."
And although it would be nice to never have any difficulty in life, I find God perfectly working in every imperfection. I find each struggle has the potential to bring strength. Each mistake a cocoon for miracles. Each set back, a set up. Each tear-stained path can lead to triumph. And some of our darkest moments are marked with divine light.
Don't distain your story. Surrender it to God and allow Him to move in every aspect of your life. Your gravest moments can be the greatest gift to this world ... it was such in the life of Jesus.
"I'm thanking God ahead of time for the miraculous story your life will tell. I know it will be laced with the goodness of God throughout. I know it will speak volumes of hope and joy to others and be a testament of the greatest love ever given—which is found in Jesus alone."
(The Podcast was by Carey Nieuwhof with Ann VosKamp Episode 485)
Photo Credit: Matthias Zomer
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