Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him: whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked. – 1 John 2:4-6

 

There’s a culture beckoning us to go our own way.

It doesn’t matter if you’re fifteen or fifty. Every day there will be voices that tempt you to walk in the ways of the world.

 

Believe this.

Compromise here.

Go there.

Do that.

 

Our own hard hearts can lead us astray.

Our pride and staunch independence can get the best of us, and our level of faith is often conditional on the circumstances around us.

 

Like Jonah, when God says, “Go,” we stubbornly say, “No.”

 

We give in to our flesh, look for the “easy” way out, and try to run from His presence. We’re stingy with grace towards others because we forget how much grace we’ve been given. The ridiculousness of outrunning God would almost seem humorous, except that it can be horribly dangerous and sinfully disobedient. One day we’re rebelliously taking off in our own direction, and the next – when we’re desperately in need of rescuing – we identify as His: “I fear the Lord, the God of heaven, who made the sea and the dry land.” (Jonah 1:9)

 

Oh God, forgive us for going our own way. 

Forgive us for thinking we know better than You.

 

Today, right now… are you running from God?

____________

Maybe you’re running away from the protection and freedom of God’s way, and instead you find yourself in a rebellious path of sin.

Maybe you’re running from broken relationships when God is clearly directing you towards reconciliation.

Maybe you’re running from a ministry assignment that seems too big or too impossible, and you’re spending way more time focusing in on your weakness instead of leaning into His strength.

Maybe you’re running from the uncomfortable – the people… the city… the job… the unknown – because the pressure is closing in on every side and you can’t possibly see how this is all going to work out.

Maybe you’re running from God himself – putting ultimatums on the Creator of the Universe, stubbornly announcing that you won’t believe unless you first see (see John 20:29).

____________

We can run, but praise God, He won’t let us get too far. He is a God who relentlessly pursues; a God who mercifully forgives; a God who extends such amazing grace that we’re never, ever too far gone. It may be a hard and humbling step, but believe HIM when He says that incredible freedom awaits for those who walk according to the Spirit (Romans 8:1-4).

Maybe you need to write these next three phrases out on a card this week as a reminder. Place it where you need it most – in your Bible, on your mirror, in your purse or car, or maybe even under your pillow – when peace escapes you and when conviction comes. Fill your mind up with God’s Word every single day and repeat what you know to be true (even if – especially if – you can’t quite feel it just yet).

 

God’s got this.
Stop running. 
Start trusting.

 

Go where He says go. Stay where He says stay. Do what He says to do. You can obey confidently and quickly, because His ways always bring life, purpose, peace, and provision – in His time and His way.

 

At His feet,

 

 

 

Let’s talk: If today you’re making a decision to stop running from God, please let us know in the comments (and find someone locally who can encourage you and keep you accountable). Our team would be honored to pray for you.

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WhitneyD

WhitneyD

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