“The images we have of God in our heads determine the degree of worry we feel in our souls. No tool or set of steps — no matter how catchy or innovative — can pry us away from worry if we don’t live in this truth. God is with us and for us. Please read this again. It is one of the most important aspects of Jesus’ life and teachings.”- Rich Villodas
Rich Villodas continues Chapter 9 of The Narrow Path as he notes the impact when we perpetually strive after more. We introduce anxiety into our lives. Certainly, an alternative exists. A way we find only on the narrow path: contentment. Because contentment allows us to live free from the lie that possessing more makes you something more.
Consequently, Jesus invites us to live detached lives. To live a life where the stuff we own doesn’t own us. Of course, that doesn’t imply that we must forfeit all property. However, it does mean we must develop a relaxed indifference to our possessions. When they come and go, we must strive to achieve a middle ground. Neither elated nor depressed.
But Jesus offers not a formula to follow, but instead shows us a new way of seeing God. Jesus wants us to know that God is trustworthy. Above all, Rich underscores, we need to hear this truth again and again. As Jesus encourages, God aims His endless supply of goodness your way!
In conclusion, author Brennan Manning described how the Holy Spirit heals the false images of God warping our reality. Writing in The Relentless Tenderness of Jesus, Manning stated:
“The Spirit of God is the great unmasker of illusions, the great destroyer of icons and idols. God’s love is so great that He does not permit us to harbor false images, no matter how attached we are to them. God strips those falsehoods from us no matter how naked they make us, because it is better to live naked in truth than clothed in failure.”
Today’s question: How do you counter the degree of worry you feel in your soul? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Putting God first – an overhaul”