A few months ago, COVID-19 brought the world to screeching halt and forced us all to be still. What choice did we have – the world was wearing a “We Are Closed” sign.
On December 30, 2019, I had reconstructive surgery on my ankle. The first four weeks of the new year, I was restricted to non-weight bearing activity. The next six weeks my left foot was in a boot, restrictions were lifted; however, I was not completely mobile. As I was preparing to go back to a sense of normalcy, the world closed. Wow, this is the second time in a three-month period I was forced to be still.
All masked up, I went to my check- in appointment with the doctor, he retired my boot, promoted me to an ankle stabilizer, and blessed me with the words “now you can put your weight on it.” I thought to myself – put my weight on it and do what, sit on the couch? On the drive home I pondered on going home to sit on the couch, which resulted in one of the most transparent revelations I have had with myself to date. How much better could my life be if I changed my normal?”
I have to be conscious about the power released from my tongue especially in a season of transition. Philippians 2:12-13 states, “Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed- not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence- continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.”
A few years ago, my son and his godmother went ziplining. During their adventure, my son’s momentum paused, and he was forced to be still with the ground almost seventy feet below. He was at a spot on the line where he needed to “put more weight on it.” The attendant simply geared up and went to meet my son where he inadvertently paused. “So do not fear for I am with you; do not be dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand (Isaiah 41:10).”
When we have those abrupt pauses in life, dismiss the perception of your condition. Stop, thank God, and say Yes! He is getting your attention and positioning you to where He needs you to “put your weight on it.”
God is systemic and His additions or subtractions may shift you into a pivot. Trust His math and align yourself accordingly. Don’t try to take the lead on your own life. Get out of His way- God doesn’t need your help. He does however require a relationship of obedience.
Isaiah 1:19, “If you are willing to be obedient, you will eat the good things of the land.”
Until we meet again, remember the possibilities are endless.