Sweet Independence

Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” – (Matthew 4:4, NIV)

Jesus answered him, “The Scriptures say, ‘It is not just bread that keeps people alive. Their lives depend on what God says.’” – (Matthew 4:4, ERV)

Jesus answered by quoting Deuteronomy: “It takes more than bread to stay alive. It takes a steady stream of words from God’s mouth.” – (Matthew 4:4, MSG)

 

Independence Day has an entirely new meaning in my world this year. I am not speaking on a national level, but rather on a personal one. Independence, as it is defined, is the freedom from the control, influence, support, aid, or the like, of others. (dictionary.com)  Ironically, to be independent from the wiles of this world, we must be dependent on God. We have to know the Lord, trust His word to be true, and actually follow after Him with our whole heart, to avoid being sucked into a dependence on popular thought, regardless of how askew it has become. Personally, I am in a space where my formerly independent mom, is currently completely dependent on me (or my sister) for everything throughout her day. Aid and support are required to sustain her, as the right side of her body is still not cooperating as it used to, prior to her stroke. At times I find myself feeling like a prisoner in this space, as I am accustomed to the freedom to come and go as I choose. Not having the liberty to take off and go for a run or make a quick trip to the store as needed, is an odd sort of normal. That being said, even when I have those freedoms at home, I still depend on God. My thought life and ability to express myself is independent of anyone’s control, and any submitting that I do, is a personal choice unto the Lord.

Perhaps my point is to not take our independence for granted. Mom’s independence was taken in an unexpected instant. She had no prior health issues nor warning signs, yet a stroke happened, and here we are. God is gracious and mom is a fighter. He has given her strength and tenacity, and I believe she will work her way back to full function on her own again. However, there is much work and an undisclosed timeline in the in between. Yesterday was another good day, as mom walked the full length of her hallway by herself with the walker during physical therapy in the morning. A bit later, we went on a “field trip” into town to drive through Dutch Bros for coffee. Honestly, it is a way to get out of the house and take in a change of scenery. Upon our return, we sat on the deck and spent a few hours playing Uno and Dominos. Playing games is a great way to continue to connect pathways in her healing brain, and do not be fooled, as she is a ruthless competitor. 😊 The remainder of the day was fairly routine, as we did the usual sort of activities. Last night, she had a few wake-ups in a short span of time, but then slept until 5:30 this morning. There is absolutely nothing scheduled for today, so we shall see what the day holds. We are independent to choose, yet dependent on God for His goodness and grace as we go. May your day be free and blessed as You celebrate the gift of independence that is held in your hands.

 

Sweet independence,

Freedom to behold;

Where no one controls,

We choose what to hold.

Hold fast to the truth,

Grace rooted in love;

Trust in the Lord’s word,

All hope from above.

Only by God’s grace,

Do we truly know;

Freedom forever,

True peace to let go.

 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your goodness and grace. Thank You that true independence and freedom come when we learn to be dependent on You. Thank You for the nourishment found in Your word. Forgive us for our frustration found in our circumstances, somehow thinking that our independence has anything to do with our location or physical condition. Teach us to trust You more, understanding that Your word truly sets us free from all that holds us captive. Show us how to love those around us well, so that they too may come to understand freedom in Your love. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we celebrate our independence because of our dependence on You. Amen.

 

© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

 

My brothers and sisters, God chose you to be free. But don’t use your freedom as an excuse to do what pleases your sinful selves. Instead, serve each other with love. – Galatians 5:13

Choosing Obedience

Obedience almost always comes at a cost. At times, it is a point of personal choice to sacrifice our own will for that of the Lord’s, whereas other times, our decision to obey could cost us the respect or friendship of others, as they know not all that is behind our story that leads to our steps of obedience.

 

In Matthew one, we read the story of Joseph, who was pledged to be married to Mary. Before they had come together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph was a righteous man, his intent was to divorce her quietly, protecting her from a fate that ended in death, despite the apparent disloyalty before him. After Joseph had decided what he would do, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and told him the reality of what was going on with his bride-to-be. When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. – (Matthew 1:24) Regardless of the likely disapproval of those around him, Joseph chose obedience to God. His faithfulness to follow the will of the Lord, led him on the path of parenting the Savior of the world…

 

Regardless of the potential repercussions around us, may we too, choose obedience each time the Lord asks us to obey.

 

When our Savior calls,

us out to obey;

may we choose to act,

in faith, right away.

No matter the cost,

the Lord’s way is best;

He sees the outcome,

in the end, we’re blessed.

Let not fear of men,

come hinder our way;

may all that we are,

see Christ and obey.

 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that though obedience is often difficult, it is always worthwhile. Thank You that You only call us to that which You have for us. Thank You that Your ways are higher than our ways, and Your thoughts, higher than our thoughts. Thank You that though we cannot see the outcome, You already know where You are leading us. Forgive us for our fear and lack of faith to follow where You call us to obey, and teach us to trust You more, so that we will rise up and move in obedience as soon as we hear You call. Lead us to love others with all that we are, just as You so completely love each of us. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we choose obedience, even when it is difficult. Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present.

But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ. – Ephesians 2:4-5