God is not in the mirror

Lately, I’ve been convicted in NOT seeing everything is in His plan for me, and that it’s good. For if I believe he is my dad (and I do out loud) and that he has his very best for me in mind, (and he does) then I must also believe that what appears to be misfortune in the here and now, must in some way be for my good. But, sometimes UGH! It’s hard Lord! (I mutter)

I guess the reason is that He’s showing me how I’ve been envious of others who have little burden. Few trials. After all, I don’t know many who have to walk a mile to the drug store in the winter only to get there to find out that even though they said the prescription was ready, it wasn’t. Or going to the Doctor at a scheduled appointment and waiting for an hour and 40 min to be seen.  But lately, He’s really been turning my heart and mind. If I’m looking at myself (in the mirror) seeing my woes, I’ll never be satisfied. But if I redirect my focus off myself (in the mirror), and fix my eyes on Him, I can be satisfied, I can have peace, and I can “be good” with being tired yet content.

I am greatly encouraged by Haggai this morning.

It was clear he was trying to get His kids (in Jerusalem) to see that their independence (or lack thereof on Him), was a cause of reaping little result despite their efforts. It appeared they were doing everything just right and yet maybe half the fruit in return. HELLO he says in 1:6, ‘redirect your energies to building my house for my glory. I will bless you (even though I don’t deserve it)’. Once they focussed on building God’s house, things began to change for them in just a few months time.

Maybe if I work on His house (inside me), He receives more glory and I’ll have peace about my circumstances. I need this now in a big way. If I show discontent for our own kids circumstances or my own, does that mean I’m less grateful than I should be? Inward focussed? or Am I not focussed on dependence on Him enough to ask Him for more in prayer and beseeching intersession?   No, I think its both.  Mankind we’re told all over scripture is inward focussed and independent. To be anything else requires an intervention.  I need Jesus to cut to my core and expose this sin. (pride) Only then can it be washed and the balm of His righteousness can be applied for healing.

He reminds us He is with us (1:13) and He can stir our spirit up (1:14) (empower us and give us peace) when I turn my eyes and efforts off myself, stop looking in the mirror and find Him.

be still and know