“Time and time again, the Spirit of the living God within us will defy the gravity of the circumstances around us, if only we trust His way above our own.”- Susie Larson
“For it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.”- Philippians 2:13 (ESV)
In Chapter 8 (“God Matures You: He Reveals, You Respond”) of Closer Than Your Next Breath, Susie Larson observes what happens every single time she chooses love and kindness. Especially when that choice isn’t the instinctive thing to do, Susie experiences something of God’s nearness. Because setting our minds on things above enables us to embrace a perspective based on God’s promises. Not our problems.
As a result, we make the fundamental choice to operate in the opposite spirit that our flesh demands. In addition, Susie suggests that we pray what she calls the “impossible” prayer. The prayer – — Lord, what impossible thing do you want to do through us next?
Most significantly, Susie underscores, Jesus cares deeply about our growth. Furthermore, Jesus never spoke of faith as a one-time event. Rather, He spoke of faith as a way of life. A life walking intimately with Him and learning what it means to follow Him.
In conclusion, Susie talks about the Parable of the Prodigal Son, found in Luke 15:11-32. Above all, the author counsels, there’s more than one way to wander. More than one way to squander all that God’s made available to us.
Thus, the younger son opted to take his father’s blessings and make his own way. Apart from his relationship with his father. However, the older son assumed a right relationship with his father — the beloved son who never rebelled. Yet, his attitude revealed otherwise.
Hence, Susie explains:
“When we walk intimately with the Father, and grow to know Him more and more, His influence purges us from presumption and entitlement. . . . Walking in God’s presence, getting to know His heart, is what changes us from the inside out.”
Today’s question: What Bible verses help you defy the gravity of the circumstances? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “The everyday grind of life”
