So my bible study group is doing Andy Stanley's study "Your Move" and I've honestly been struggling through it. He asks questions (4 specifically) that make you bring up your past and find yourself at a crossroads...which don't get me wrong I think its healthy to evaluate motives and places you've been and things you have done in your life....BUT in the midst of a life crisis I'm not so keen on hearing "One day this will just be a story you tell."
sigh....
although I agree with what he's trying to bring about...to start making decisions that are God-honoring and that bring Him glory at the end of the day so that your life is a reflection of His love and not self-gain. I do want this and I will be the first to admit that it doesn't always happen. I try and fail everyday. I need His grace EVERY day....
The second question he asks in the study, is "what is your story?" He questions if you're being completely honest with yourself (1st question) in the story of your life? We discussed the story of Joseph in Genesis 39 and how he chose NOT to play the victim in his life's path, even though he was wronged and tempted a great deal he stood out for God and what was right. I play the victim sooo much in my life.
Andy stresses to be careful that the decisions you make in your life don't make you a liar for the rest of your life. In other words, no regrets for the good and the bad. The story you tell: write it and live it well.
My story seems to be changing every day. 2 years ago I would never have put myself here. Single and broken-hearted. Heavily in debt. Still living at home. Working the same thank-less desk job with no promise of promotion in sight....sigh.
This is not the story I wish to tell. I need to count my blessings...especially this time of year when there's so many who have far less than I do. I am thankful for a roof over my head and a place to sleep and warm clothes and a car that works and a job that gives me money to get out of debt and save a little. I am thankful for friends who've become my rock in a time where I never knew I would need them so much. And as much as it hurts I'm thankful for those who aren't so present in my life anymore, for their stories and for the love they showed me and the sacrifices they've made. I'm mostly thankful for the promise that I'm not alone in this. As I suffer I know He has suffered just the same. There's comfort knowing you're not alone.
"So when it hurts, when times get hard...
Don't forget who's child you are." ~Addison Road
