How to rejoice when God helps you make room in your life so you can receive Him and His new blessings. When it's gone, it's gone! or the joy of letting go. Alleluia!
There it was. Resting on our driveway for months, if not years. Small spiders had embraced it as a canvas to create their artistic web-ly traps, around its rearview mirrors. And, my son had a memorable experience on how (not) to use its boot for a hide-and-seek game. Glancing at my first car, a silver, compact but comfortable, A-Class Mercedes bought back many memories: a family trip abroad, work commute, the school runs. Still, for the last (20 months) the engine was dead - only parts could be salvaged. My car seemed like a defunct, relic of good old days taking space on the driveway.
Then, my husband finally managed to put on sale online. And within 24 hours, the car was gone. (the wonders of free online ads - some would say Praise be to God)
Although we use another car for our daily commutes, my hubby and I were a bit sad to see our silver car leave on the back of a trailer truck. But my son, not all. "Why are you sad?" did he ask with such aplomb that it first took me aback, then delighted me. "This was an old car." he continued. "And it didn't even work anyway. There's no need to be sad. Well, I am not!"
Ace! My 7 years old boy got me thinking. What a life lesson!
Sometimes we hang on to the material and non-material blessings God has given us. We are attached to the joy and good memories they carry in what they represent for us. (a house, a job, a car, a mentor... ). But as with my (old car - ditto my boy), these things are sitting there, unused, collecting dust, helping feed "insects" and not serving any purpose.
In the same way that my car attracted all types of spiders, mulch on the driveway. The more you hang on to these past blessings with a use-by date on it, the more you will attract undesirables. The more you become attached to what God gave for a specific time, the more it will add to your list of chores and end up being a burden for you.
Word of caution: I am not saying to get rid of things or situations that might be there to shape your character and help your bless somebody else - a complicated relationship, a hard job, etc. First, ask God for clarity and wisdom before you take any important decisions.
Make room for the new things to come.
Can you fill a cup of water which is already full? Not really. You need to pour out the content and get fresh water. Listen to God's word"
"Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert". Isaiah 43:19
Back on our driveway. Now in place of the "old car," there is some extra room. Whether it gets with another vehicle or not doesn't really matter. What I learnt through this experience is:
- to trust God above all things.
- to know that He's in control.
- to empty self of what keeps me stuck
- to cherish past victories, yes, but not linger there
- to rejoice in advance for the good things God has in store for me.
- to look forward to a renewed alliance with God based on faith.
My Dear Sister, allow me to ask these questions:
What do you need to let go of?
What is the Holy Spirit impressing on your heart?
What is the "trophy" or symbol of past victories that prevents you from gaining new ones?
How can you make more room for God in your life and receive His blessings?
Yes, I know it's not always easy to let go. Yet, trust the One is who Sovereign. He loves you. He is longing to do a new thing in your life today. Would you let Him?
Let's pray.
Dear Lord Jesus, You know me inside out. You know the things that clutter my physical, emotional, mental and spiritual life. Some might have been good in the past, but now they are a hindrance to my spiritual growth. Reveal and make it clear to me today what I need to let go of. And give me the strength and faith to obey Your will. I am ready to make more room for You. In Jesus' name, I prayed. Amen!
(As usual, UPLIFT MINISTRIES is keen to help you move forward in your life. Should you want to talk or have a prayer companion, please get in touch - hello@upliftministries.org.uk)
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