I never like to go in more than one direction. I like to have a focus, something that is grounding me.
If I’m applying to a job, I like to apply to one, see if I get it, and then move on from there.
If I’m looking for an apartment, I like to find a property, contact management, go from there.
If I’m planning a trip, I like to narrow it down to a location and go from there.
You could call this ‘putting all your eggs in one basket.’ In a lot of circumstances, I can admit, it’s a bad idea. It can result in a lot of wasted time, but sometimes the fact that there are so many options is what terrifies and overwhelms me.
In a season where I really needed to spread my eggs between lots of baskets, I was praying and asked God why I felt the need to lock in one one thing. He didn’t answer my question. Instead, I heard the Spirit say “that one thing needs to be me.”
I froze as chills rippled across my skin. I wasn’t expecting that.
Perhaps that is why disappointment always felt so close: I was putting my trust in things that 1) could disappear in any moment and 2) weren’t even mine yet. It often felt like that popular audio going around from The Office, where Michael says “This is a dream I’ve had since lunch, and I’m not giving up on it now.” I take something, run with it, and then am let down when it falls through.
In Matthew 24:35, Jesus says “Heaven and earth will pass away but my words will never pass away.”
If I allow God to become my sole focus, then I’m set for life. He is the one thing that existed before the universe and will exist after it. I could buy a house and watch it burn down the next day. I could save every penny I ever earn and have it stolen from me. I can lean on people around me and watch them fade from my life through various circumstances. But nothing can separate me from God.
“Where can I go to escape your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to heaven, you are there. If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there. If I live at the eastern horizon or settle at the western limits, even there your hand will lead me; your right hand will hold onto me.” Psalm 139:7-10.
To have the one thing I lock into be God is not only glorifying to Him, but steadying for me.
What part of your life do you need to refocus on God? If you’re not sure, ask Him to reveal it to you.
Always,
Emily
Always Emily 