Strong Enough

Well, it's March 5th... we're a little over two months into 2013. If these first couple months were any indication of what the rest of the year is going to look like... it's going to be an interesting year. There have already been many hurdles and hardships and things that I never could have endured on my own. Thankfully, I have people who have never left my side through all of it. Above all, I have a Father who is so strong and faithful, that He has literally carried me through all of it. A song that could describe God's presence in my life this year is "Strong Enough" by Matthew West.

Through all the trials this year, God has taught me more about Him and my identity in Him than I could have  ever imagined. These last couple months have been all about relying on Him in EVERYTHING, surrendering every single detail/decision to Him, and standing firm on the promise that He has a plan for my life far greater than anything I could ever come up with on my own. There's nothing to worry about... the battle has already been fought and the war has already been won. I don't have to be strong enough, He's strong enough for the both of us.

I came across this quote on Facebook today:

"Here is what I have discovered: just before the Lord releases a new mantle or anointing upon an individual, He will often "dis-mantle" that individual’s previous level of service. This dismantling may not feel good. We may pass through a season of brokenness. But if we keep faith during the process, the new mantle with come. When it does, you will have greater conformity to Christ, and thus greater power." – In Christ’s Image Training

This has been SO true in my life this last couple months. In the midst of all the hardship, God has blessed me beyond belief. He's developing spiritual gifts and skills in me that leave me completely in awe of His love. I'm so humbled and privileged that He's chosen to use me in these ways. I'm also incredibly grateful that He's allowing me to be part of such amazing ministries at my current church AND at a church plant that will be launching next month! God's favor is so strong on my life right now and I often question why He has blessed me so much... thankfully, I don't have to look far for the answer. He loves me. Plain and simple. I am His daughter and He wants to provide for me.

I've been enjoying reading the Bible as a love letter from my Father. Allow me to give an example, two of my favorites so far:

Lindsey,
I am your shepherd, you shall lack nothing. I will make you lie down in green pastures, lead you beside quiet waters, and refresh your soul. I will guide you along the right paths for My names sake. Even though you walk through the darkest valley, you will fear no evil for I am with you; My rod and my staff will comfort you. (Psalm 23:1-4) 

Because you love Me, I will rescue you; I will protect you because you acknowledge My name. You will call on Me and I will answer you; I will be with you in trouble, I will deliver you and honor you. With long life I will satisfy you and show you My salvation. (Psalm 91:14-16)

Such amazing promises... I'm in awe of His love for me and how He sacrificed His son so that I could be free from the pain and hurt of this world. Jesus' blood covers me, I have no reason to be anxious or worried about anything. I am royalty, I have destiny, I have been set free, I'm gonna shape history. Come on!

There's a verse that God has placed on my heart this year. It continues to be both a challenge and an encouragement:

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart."- Hebrews 12:1-3

Jesus suffered far greater than I ever have and yet I often like to think that I have to suffer alone because Jesus can't/won't help me through my tiny trials. Ha. Instead, He tells me that there's no reason for me to grow weary and lose heart because of the opposition He endured. He's already covered it so that I can persevere in the face of hardships. What?!?! Seriously, why wouldn't I want more of a God who loves me that much??

I'm so excited to see what He is going to do in and through me and others around me this year to reach His people. All for His glory! More of You, Lord!