Upside Down
January 18, 2014//
Topics to Dig Into
For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.
Isaiah 55:8-9 (NLT)
Sometimes Jesus doesn’t make sense. Not only do His ideas directly contradict worldly values, they seem completely illogical. Turn the other cheek. Bless those who curse you. You are stronger when you are weak. Jesus’ instructions don’t make sense because we can’t experience the benefits of living His way until we step out in faith and actually do it. Only then do we understand God’s logic (which, by the way, is higher than ours).
The world told me, and for years I believed, that successful people were in control and could take care of themselves. Only weak people needed help. Pride told me I didn’t need counseling or medication. Pride kept my past mistakes and ongoing suffering hidden. I wore the mask of a strong, capable, self-reliant, model church lady. And I was secretly miserable.
It was only when, with a shaky voice and pounding heart, I opened up to some trusted friends that I began to see the logic in Jesus’ teachings. My friendships deepened because I was truly known (and still loved!). Humbling myself was terrifying and risky, but I felt the immense freedom of authenticity. Doesn’t Scripture say the truth will set you free.
That was an enormous turning point in my faith journey. Being honest with my friends enabled me to be real with God. I am a mess. I need Him every day. And when I am humble before God, He fills my life with more strength and joy than I can describe. Who would guess? I am strong because I am weak.
May you also experience God’s upside-down wisdom.
Spend a few minutes to plant a quick Seed. Or stay longer and plant a whole garden.
