“Remember this.
When people choose to withdraw far from a fire, the fire continues to give warmth, but they grow cold. When people choose to withdraw far from light, the light continues to be bright in itself but they are in darkness. This is also the case when people withdraw from God.”
~Augustine~
C
hoose
How often do I choose to stay in God’s warmth and light when I’m on my knees, making deals as I am promising Him I will do something for Him, when despair hits. I’m astounded how God answers my prayers, works miracles, heals, and gives amazing peace beyond comprehension.
Without realizing it, I begin down a path that silently slowly sneaks me away from God. The crisis seems over, the bills are being paid, relationships are working, kids are maturing and life seems pretty good. I skip devotions and promise to do it tomorrow . . . or the next day. I begin to choose to do it on my own, of my own strength, not His. And then I stumble, fall and fail, pleading with God to not go through yet another trial . . .
Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. James 1:2-4
And, I choose again, to follow Him. Others say they cannot understand how I can be so strong going through what we have. It is His strength. He is growing me, and giving endurance never imagined. And each time, the wandering is less and shortened as I quickly feel the coldness of losing sight of Him.
It’s a choice and I continue to choose Him more and more.
Today’s writing began with writing about the above quote for In ‘Other’ Words, hosted by Kathryn on her blog, Expectant Hearts. I thought it also fit in well, for Imperfect Prose, so I am combining my post for both.
Writing Canvas 