Into the Fire

There’s a process to everything, isn’t there? From beginning to end of life, there is a process of learning, adapting, applying, and resolving, and so many things in between. It seems we are constantly “in the process” of something.

A familiar process to me is one that is not easy to pass through, but it is necessary for increasing the intensity of the walk with Christ. I call it “The Breaking”, but you might have other names for the process. The best I can do to describe it is to say that God decides how much you can take and then spiritually accomplishes his goal for you. In the midst of it there is weeping, sorrowing, revelation, and prayer. In other words we are moved by the Spirit of God to change yet again to become more like our Lord. It’s tough to experience.

“The Breaking” can be subtle, but it is never insignificant or unnoticeable. Emotion is heightened and elevated. Sensitivity to injustice, pain, suffering, sinfulness, and other human situations is intensified. The reliance on God’s abilities is strengthened out of pure necessity when one’s own pitiful ability surfaces and declares its overall ineffectiveness.

Experiencing this breaking process is all about letting go of our independence and reestablishing our total dependence on the One who desires to direct this life He has supplied to us. The goal is total submission to His plan. The objective is obedience acquired from the glimpse at our helplessness from the perspective of heavenly wisdom.

How long has it been since you were truly moved by the Spirit of God? Moved in the smallest way? Moved by an overwhelming sense of ineptitude? Moved to tears? Moved to action? Moved away from self-serving ways? Moved away from self-focused endeavors? Moved toward focused obedience? If it’s been too long to pinpoint, chances are it’s time to submit yourself to being moved . . .

I’m convinced the most “moving” literature arises from the deepest depths of the spirit, the places of true suffering, real learning, raucous laughter, and the most meaningful of experiences. Those come from soulful visitation with the God of the universe. You can’t get there taking short cuts. You can’t get there superfluously. You can’t get there by mistake. It is a destination arrived at with intent and determination. You simply won’t settle for anything less than an Encounter. God knows your desire, and He waits until you’re committed to it. Then He shows up, and you’re changed. For the better because of Him. It’s a true triumph. Worth all the time it takes. Worth the wait. Worth it all. Because of Him.

Is it time? Time to be moved . . . to tears? To . . . whatever He has in mind for you?

Father, we wait upon you. We need you, to hear from you. Move us into action and deliberation. Wake us up. Remind us of what’s really important and of great value. For sure it involves you and your plans and directions for us. We are desperate for you. Help us to be obedient in heart, soul, and actions. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.

*Please pray for Kristy Dykes and her family.*