“Isn’t this our first reaction when life seems overwhelming — we start lightening the load, dumping cargo overboard so we don’t drown? The problem is, we can dump the wrong things overboard. We think nothing of tossing over joy while hanging on to the very things that overwhelm us.”- John Eldredge
John Eldredge concludes the Spring section of Walking with God as he discusses seeking guidance from God. When clarity from God isn’t immediately forthcoming, John states, our first step involves paying attention to our own posture toward God. In other words, our posture affects our ability to hear God or colors what we do hear.
Especially when giving up some joy seems inevitable, it’s essential that we stop to ask God. For God often desires that we run against life’s prevailing current. Thus, this guidance often feels counterintuitive.
Most importantly, John advises, notice your reaction as you start to close in on what you believe God’s saying to you. If your reaction produces joy, the author states, you’re onto something. But if that reaction produces sorrow, fear, or discouragement, you need to stop and ask why.
In conclusion, John stresses that he’s not advocating a senseless or hopeless approach to life. In fact, Oswald Chambers once said that the existence of God provides the only explanation for a Christian’s life. Otherwise, life makes no sense.
Therefore, wisdom and revelation go hand in hand- and come from the Holy Spirit. John adds: “We need them both to walk with God, need them in generous doses to navigate the dangerous waters of this world.”
And when healing or a breakthrough seems illusive, as Christ followers we possess a gospel of resurrection. Despite what losses come our way, they don’t signal the end of the story. Jesus came so that we might have life.
Today’s question: What Bible verses sustain you when life seems overwhelming? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: the new Short Meditation, “The three laws of relationship”
Please note: the annotation of Walking with God will post Thursday, June 8th
