Many of us begin the new year planning resolutions — a word that can feel more like “reinvention.” Perhaps we plan to read more, join a gym, or spend more time with the Lord. We make lists, set goals, and ask others to help hold us accountable. While resolutions are not a bad thing, we usually make them more about ourselves and what we want, rather than what God may want for us.
The apostle Paul was a man who, prior to becoming an apostle, felt compelled to stamp out the name of Jesus completely. Certainly, he believed he was doing everything right! However, during the journey to Damascus, God spoke to him in a way that completely rearranged his plans: “So he, trembling and astonished, said, ‘Lord, what do you want me to do?’ Then the Lord said, ‘Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.’” (Acts 9:6). This moment in Paul’s life changed his entire purpose for living. Rather than stamping out the name of Jesus, he was called to proclaim it!
Sometimes, following God’s plan may feel like our lives are being wrecked. He may call us to a place we never imagined, or to something completely opposite of what we wanted.
This year, instead of focusing on how you can ’reinvent’ parts of your life, invite the Lord to renew you. Let go of your plans, and give him control.
Lord, I invite you into every part of my life — not just the parts I want you to fix, but every part that needs fixing, even the parts I can’t see! Help me to go where you are leading, even if it looks different from my own plans! I surrender control to you.
Throughout This Day: Seek to walk in God’s presence, attentive to the Spirit’s voice. What is he putting on your heart? Will you trust him and obey, knowing he is giving you all the resources needed to do so?
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