Have you ever, in love and support and with all the best of intentions, tried to execute tough love or an intervention and had it blow up in your face? Or have you been the recipient of these actions badly executed? I have. Out of love and compassion I listened to a heartbreak and was asked for advice. I listed all the options I could think of along with all the possible outcomes. I offered shelter and safety for a time for the other party to be able to think clearly to make a decision without interruption. It totally blew up in my face, leaving everyone involved with painful heartache.
With my brain reeling in shock at this outcome, I had to ask myself a few questions. I examined my motives, and my preparation in the Word of God for the work He has for me to do; did I listen to the voice of Jesus and apply scripture? The other day I ran across this statement: “We get ourselves in these situations where our noblest intentions don't stand a chance because we aren't paying attention to the small decisions we make along the way that get us there.” I then realized that I had not been paying attention to the small decisions, but had allowed myself to become immersed in the daily details of life instead of prioritizing time spent with Jesus and His Word. As a result, I was out of practice hearing His voice and allowed myself to take over. While still hoping for reconciliation, I realize that all I can do now is to watch carefully the choices I make now and in the future. I must be committed to paying attention! I need to focus on what is most important.
God knows exactly what we need in order to live the life He wants for us, and has given us a great owners manual! Most of us tend to experiment first, then read it when things go awry. But, in Matthew 6:33, He tells us to: “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and all these things will be added unto you.” We have to seek Him before anything/anyone else in our life, and before trying on our own. How to do this?
Pray to God immediately when you find yourself tempted – before you actually sin by seeking something/someone else before seeking Him. That is part of acknowledging Him in all your ways...(Proverbs 3:6). Christ expects us to fight that which is evil within us...brought out by temptation. As Philippians 4:13 reminds us, He gladly gives us strength to do so!
Make a habit of praying regularly and at length at least once every day, in order to maintain a relationship with your Heavenly Father. He tells us to “Pray without ceasing.”
(I Thessalonians 5:17)
Study the Bible every day to learn and be reminded of His will, His heart, and His ways. (Proverbs 3:5; 4:11) ...don't rely on your own knowledge and wisdom. This gives you a tool to make good choices.
Frequently, think carefully and intentionally about how God, according to His Word, wants you to change while focusing your thoughts on the specific change you need to make to be more like Him. You can't make all needed changes at once, but think about when you have not focused on the little decisions that could have prevented disaster, and picture yourself focusing on what God wants you to be...specifically on the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).
Christ must be the center of each and every thought, motivation, and decision to be able to give you His wisdom and discernment when you need it. If you don't know His voice, His ways, and His will, then how will you know whose lead you are following?
Whether or not you have ever had something similar happen to you, maintaining a closer, more intimate relationship with your Lord and Savior will give you a more peaceful and satisfying future!
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