Learning to Trust

What happens when you rely on your own strength?

Fear.

Depression.

Regret.

Freak-out moments.

Tears.

Pain.

Memories.

Ice-cream.

Low self-esteem.

Nail biting.

Seclusion.

Discontentment.

And the list can go on and on and on.  Even though some of these things are comical, they are perfect examples of fear.  If you are human, you have related to at least a few of these unwanted actions or ideas.  This is because sometimes we rely on our own strength and not that of God's.  I have been having lots of these moments.

Then, in one instant of realizing how silly I am, God showed me that He has got this whole thing (that little thing known as "my life") under His control.  My whole being is in the palm of his hands.  

A few nights ago, I was reminded of this love when I read an insert in Sheri Rose Shepherd's book His Princess Warrior:

It's time, my warrior, to surrender your fears, your insecurities, your pain, and your loved ones completely to Me.  I want your whole heart and mind and soul to be worry free.  I want your complete trust so you can focus on your faith and be free from the spirit of fear controlling you.  Give up the fight of trying to figure it all out.  Don't let your circumstances hold your heart hostage or cause you to lose your confidence in Me. I am asking you on this day to answer this one question: In whom do you place your trust? (p. 134)

This is what I read on a night when I was totally relying on my own understanding.  I don't know what you are dealing with right now.  Maybe it is the prison of depression, a unsettled marriage, a broken relationship, a lost job, a hopeless family, a scolded friendship, or any weight that is holding you from entrusting your thoughts to Him.  Don't be ashamed that you have come to this point.  We are creatures with an ability to learn.  God sometimes wants us to realize we have nothing without Him.  However, if we continue without His guidance, we risk a mediocre life - barren from any and all of God's goodness.  Surrender your fears today.  He is waiting.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths. (Proverbs 3:5, 6 NKJV)

Your Trusting Friend,
Elizabeth