Thoughts – Page 10 – the lovely unexpected

Cultivate.

We live in a world full of quick fixes & immediate satisfaction-we’re told: “anything you want; you deserve to have.” We want to see the beautiful end product, the happy ending, the conclusion & the destination. But the fact is that God created life to be a process: a journey.

While thinking about the sometime seemingly slow process of life; the word “cultivate” has come up frequently in this new year and it’s been a reminder to trust that no test, trial, or season is ever wasted. So I looked up the meaning of the word cultivate…

to foster the growth of
to grow/care for
to raise/assist

“Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness.” -Psalm 37:3 [NASB]

What a beautiful picture of what Jesus is doing in our lives. Just as a farmer is patient, intentional, diligent & hard-working in cultivating his fragile and vulnerable crops; Jesus is doing the same in our hearts. The farmer knows what he is doing—he has a goal & purpose in mind and also has the tools, knowledge, and resources needed to fulfill those plans.

“For we are God’s fellow workers [His servants working together]; you are God’s cultivated field [His garden, His vineyard], God’s building.” – 1 Cor. 3:9 [AMP]

A farmer knows where he will plant, what seeds he will place there and why, he waters, weeds, persistently protects, nourishes and patiently waits. He gently cares and does everything in his power to make his crops fruitful—even if that means pruning and doing what temporarily hurts.

“For, behold, I am for you, and I will turn to you [in favor], and you shall be cultivated and sown.” Ezekiel 36:9

The growing process is hard, long, & anything but glamorous…but what it produces in you is more than your heart could ever imagine. As you trust the One who sees the end from the beginning He grows and strengthens your faith in Him. Trust Him when He plants seeds and pulls weeds. Trust Him when He prunes and waters. Trust Him when He picks and replants. What He has purposed He will accomplish; He will always complete what He has started. His word will not return to Him void.

It is a process and in our own strength we are helpless to wait because everything in our human mind and reasoning wants to take control. Long-suffering is something that only the Spirit of God can produce in us.

“Let us not grow weary or become discouraged in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap, if we do not give in.” Gal. 6:9

Don’t deceive yourself to believe that this fast paced, never stopping, comfortable life portrayed and idolized by society is how it was meant to be…that we’re living the dream when we’re living for ourselves: chasing our own passions, pursuits and ambitions. I pray we would desperately long to love God’s desires more than our own & that we would follow after His heart and run from of our own. How much the enemy of our souls would love for us to believe that we’re pursuing what really matters as we chase after what the world values: only to come to the end of our lives and find that the rat-race lead to destruction.

“If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for Me will save it. What will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, yet loses or forfeits his very self?” – Luke 9:23-25

I want to spend my life chasing what matters.

Trust that He is sovereign, constant, faithful & trustworthy. He is working, cultivating, strengthening, and growing—in the small, simple, routine things that go unappreciated and unseen He sees and He cares. Every chore, kind word, prayer, hurt, & tear: He knows. There are many ordinary tasks in a day; but not one of them is without purpose when done in worship, to glorify Jesus. God is always using the mundane in our lives to accomplish something greater in us. He is bringing it all together to work the extraordinary. One day you’ll look back and see that when you thought He’d forgotten He was there; holding you thru it all.

Don’t lose sight of today’s purpose: remember that He is cultivating you.

“In the soil, I now surrender
You are breaking new ground
So I yield to You and to Your careful hand
When I trust You I don’t need to understand”

– “New Wine” by Hillsong

my greatest example…

Do you know that look of deep, soul satisfaction and enjoyment on someone’s face when they are around those they cherish & love? That is the look my mom has when she is around her family. And it astounds me: the way she loves us. Everyday she chooses love: while there are hundreds of other things people would say are worthy of her devotion and commitment—she chooses her family. The love my mom has shown and continues to show me is one of the clearest representations of God’s Love for His children. I truly will never fully comprehend the unwavering, uncompromising, unchanging, or unconditional love that my mom holds in her heart. It’s a love I am underserving of & never could repay, but will always be in awe of.

To watch the way my mom has always loved and supported my dad is incredible. If you have a deadline or goal, my mom is the one person you want in your corner. She is the best encourager and helper. My parents tell me stories from before they were parents…how, when they first got married my dad was completing his Bachelors degree and working full-time and my mom was right there with him; supporting him and never complaining. For being newlyweds, their life was not care-free in the slightest: they were living in a small New York apartment but they were together and worked through it as a team. No matter what stress or outside demand was pressing in on their lives they didn’t let it pull them apart; rather, whenever my parents faced a trying time it always brought them closer together and strengthened their bond; and they still show me that example today.

When you see her today you would never guess all that she’s walked through and she never tires of recalling God’s grace in her life. Her heart and life are a miracle.

My mom’s patience astounds me. Growing-up, I think she demonstrated the most long-suffering towards us when it came to school and homework. She always had the most calm & kind demeanor while explaining math problems, history lessons, and spelling rules. She always worked so hard to make sure that she was explaining these concepts in a way that we could understand and comprehend. She could explain and demonstrate a single problem or idea numerous ways until she saw the light go off in our eyes and could be confident that we understood. No matter how long it took; she persisted and never gave up on us.

My mom’s dedication inspires me. She is always the first one to encourage when I want to give up and she leads by example. When my mom commits to something she gives it her all. There’s never ever half-stepping; especially when it comes to her family: from themed birthday parties & vacations; to sewing projects, dinners (which are hands-down the best evvvaahh), and field trips: she plans, prepares, and pours her heart and soul into the details so those she loves never has to question her love. I admire her work-ethic so much. It doesn’t matter if it seems insignificant or small in someone else’s mind; she will always work until it is complete and done excellently.

She is safe. Her heart is trustworthy, nurturing, and full of wisdom. Caring for others comes as naturally as breathing. Her love can be seen in the million ways she demonstrates it each and every day and it astounds me because I don’t deserve it; she simply loves me because I am hers.

She has sacrificed so much to be with us. To teach, homeschool, and simply be together. But she never speaks of what she left to become a stay-at-home mom or talk about it as if it was a burden—she always speaks of what she gained through being with us and pouring into our lives.

She didn’t seek her value in what the world deems ‘worthy’ or praiseworthy. As I grow up I’m saddened because I see that when I was younger I didn’t understand a lot. I couldn’t see what she had chosen to give up. I took a lot for granted. I’ll never fully comprehend all she has sacrificed for me but the lessons she has taught me through her life will always be etched in my heart and memory. Her example of how she walks in what the Lord has called her to with joy & open-hands is something I’ll always remember and the legacy she has left behind. She is the greatest example of a mother and wife and I could never thank her enough for that.

Mom,

I will forever be amazed that I get to call you mine.

Happy Mother’s Day. ♥️

“If not, He is still good.”

“If not, He is still good.”

Those are not words you utter once and go on the rest of your life believing with determined, unwavering resolve. No, those are words that must rise as your soul’s song each and everyday—no matter what you are facing—even if it’s not what you expected. Through the years, that quote has been an anthem in my heart. There have been seasons where it has been easier to accept, trust and rejoice in those words: knowing His goodness with full assurance. And there have also been seasons where I have struggled to believe them: days (weeks…years…) when I doubt and wrestle to declare His goodness through the tears and hurt.

But through it all He is still good and His goodness is not determined by my circumstances; even if it doesn’t feel good … He is still good.

The enemy and my flesh lie: causing me to doubt God’s character. Maybe you can relate, in my head it sounds like this: “How could He be good if _____ happened?” “How could He be faithful if I feel alone?” “I know I’m supposed to wait…but it’s in my power to get it and I’d rather have it now.” “How could He be good if I don’t have ______?”

“God is too good to be unkind and He is too wise to be mistaken. And when we cannot trace His hand, we must trust His heart.” — Charles Spurgeon

There have been times where I have looked at God’s commands and purpose and have believed them to be burdensome, boring, irrational, and only in place to keep me from “enjoying life”. I know in my head that God’s plan is “good” but there have been times that I, honestly, have not desired it because I believed it wouldn’t be as fulfilling, abundant, or joy-filled as my own. That is a lie and is the voice of my own pride and self-righteousness. Those belief’s have come from a misunderstanding and lack of knowledge of who God is and when I begin to have those thoughts I must remind myself of God’s word and ask Him to correct my view of Him so I can see Him more clearly and trust Him more deeply. My Father, who created me, the world, and everything in it, knows how to give good & perfect gifts: in His time and in His way. Don’t you think the One who created you and the gift would know when and how to give it? I know it is hard and will cost you follow God’s Words & walk the narrow way, but distrust of God’s plan is ultimately distrust of God Himself. “If you who are evil know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!” Matthew 7:11

“Even if You don’t,
my hope is You alone.”

Here are some lessons God has taught me along the way about His goodness, purpose & trusting Him with the unknown:

Taking your eyes off of others — your journey is not theirs. Your family, life circumstances, and future is unique and unlike any other — God designed it that way with a purpose; it is not an accident! So do not be discouraged when others seem to be getting what you desire. Embrace the journey God has designed specifically for you and rejoice in it—rejoice that your Heavenly Father writes no two stories the same!
Fix Your eyes on Jesus and set your mind on His heavenly purpose. “But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us. We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed” (2 Corinthians 4:7-9) I know that it doesn’t seem like it in the moment: when you’re alone, faced with a devastating diagnosis, buried under piles of work and a busy schedule, trying to reconcile the loss of a loved one while learning how to live again…I am reminded of Job’s words: “the Lord has given and the Lord has taken away” there will be times in life when those words feel harder to speak than ever; but through God’s grace and strength it is possible to face whatever is attempting to crush you and worship Him in the midst of the storm. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 says: “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, yet our inner self is being renewed day by day. For our light and temporary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that far outweighs our troubles. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal”
Cherish the season you are currently in. We tend to glamorize and daydream about every season in life except the one we are currently in. We think “how much better it will be” and set unattainable expectations; but the truth is that there are difficult parts in every season and where you are right now is full of purpose: it is necessary and preparing you for what God has for you to walk through next. Do not wish every season of life away — rather be grateful: assured that God is teaching you lessons right now that you couldn’t learn any other way. “Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18

I pray, no matter where you are in life, that you would be able to embrace God’s plan and purpose for you—it’s not easy but He is trustworthy and you can rest assured that He is who He says He is. I pray you would be able to rejoice, celebrate and cherish Jesus and His words—that you would surrender your plans to Him. He is good and faithful to do exceedingly more than you could ever hope, imagine, or dream for yourself.

Psalm 84:11 —
“The LORD gives grace and glory;
No good thing does He withhold
from those who walk uprightly.”

Deuteronomy 10:20-21 —
“Fear the Lord your God and serve Him
Hold fast to Him.
He is your praise.”

Deuteronomy 26:11 —
“REJOICE in all the good things
the Lord your God has given to you.”

Crazy Love

“Our goal as people who follow Christ should be no less than becoming people who are madly in love with God.”

“God wants us to trust Him with abandon. He wants to show us how He works and cares for us. He wants to be our refuge.” – Crazy Love by Francis Chan

Yes, this book came out in 2008 (10 years ago?!) and I just read it for the 1st time last month… but: Whew. It’s good. Francis Chan writes about the love of God and the way our lives would look if we truly lived out the words of Jesus and lived as He intended us to. God did not send His Son so we could simply sit in pews and listen to “good sermons” week after week; lives wasted in useless routine. Those have a place of importance but they do not bring salvation or a relationship with Jesus. Following Jesus & looking like Him is not burdensome but is natural and a mere overflow—not a checkbox on a list—when we are consumed and motivated His ever faithful, gracious, never-failing love. I remember when I stopped looking at church, Jesus, and the Bible as a set of rules and it completely changed my whole perspective. I realized that God created joy and has called us to a life of abundant purpose in Him: not in material, temporary wealth. He doesn’t keep us from enjoyment, He gives us boundaries so we can enjoy Himself & His blessings to the fullest. 1 John 5:3-4 says: “For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome. For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith.”

Self-sacrifice, faith, love and joy will define our daily lives when we have a clear view of Christ & His love. Thru reading this book, these are a few questions I was challenged to ask myself:

In what areas in my life am I actively walking by faith?
What am I doing to reach out to those who I typically wouldn’t?
Am I seeking my own safety and comfort more than God’s design and will for my life?
How am I practically, daily laying my life down for others?
What risks am I taking, trusting that God will guide and provide?
What places in my heart and mind have grown apathetic and complacent?

These are questions I know I’ll be asking for the rest of my life and I’m grateful for books like these that reveal places in my heart where I’ve been holding onto pride, selfishness and unbelief. Definitely a book I see myself picking up again in the future. Here are my favorite quotes:

“There are reason that we are where we are and who we are—they aren’t random. It is the same with joy in our lives. We tend to think of joy as something that ebbs sand flows depending on the day or season of life we’re in. But joy is something that doesn’t come and go; it is something we must choose and work for. It needs cultivation. When life gets painful or something doesn’t go as we hoped, it’s normal for a bit of our joy to slip away. But the Bible teaches that true joy is formed in the midst of the difficult seasons of life. — A person who is obsessed with Jesus is more concerned with their character than their comfort. Those who are overwhelmed by God’s love know that true joy does not depend on environment or circumstances. It is a gift that must be CHOSEN and CULTIVATED; a gift that ultimately comes from God.”

“The American church loves to make celebrities of their saints. To make the stories known of humble people who serve Christ faithfully. There can be a tragic consequence to this: too many people fall for the praise and start to believe that they really are something special. It’s pride. Plain & simple, that keeps me from giving God all the glory and keeping some of it for myself.”

“People who are obsessed with God are raw & honest before Him. They do not attempt to mask the ugliness of their sin or failure…they know God is their refuge, a safe place, where they can be at peace.”

“Awhile back I had a free evening and had the idea to go to the store and buy some items for those in need. It was a good idea and something I wanted my life to be characterized by, but it was embarrassing because I realized that everyone I knew had enough. I didn’t know many people who were true in need & I needed to change that. I needed to go and intentionally meet those who don’t live like me, think like I do, & who could never repay me. Most people think about life on earth way too much—all our time, energy, and money is channeled on that which is temporary. When Christians sacrifice & give wildly to the poor, that is truly a light that glimmers. When people gladly sacrifice their time or comfort or home it is obvious that they trust in the promises of God. People who are obsessed with Jesus live lives that connect them with the poor in some way—Jesus talked about money & the poor so often because it is really important to Him.”

“‘What are you doing right now that requires faith?’—That question affected me deeply because at that time I could think of nothing in my life that required faith. I probably wouldn’t be living very differently if I didn’t believe in God. My life was neither ordered nor affected by my faith like I had assumed it was. Furthermore: when I looked around, I realized that I was surrounded by people who lived the same way I did. Life is comfortable when you separate yourself from people who are different from you. That epitomizes what my life was like: characterized by comfort. But God doesn’t call us to comfort. He calls us to trust Him so completely that we are unafraid to put ourselves in situations where we will be in trouble if He doesn’t come thru.”

“It ought to be the business of everyday to prepare for our final day.”

“The concept of downsizing so that others might upgrade is Biblical, beautiful…and nearly unheard of today. Dare to imagine what it would mean for you to take the words of Jesus seriously. Dare to imagine your own children in poverty…dare to believe that those really are your brothers and sisters.”

“We are loaded down with too many good things, more than we could ever need, while others are desperate for water & their next meal. The good things we hoard are more than just money: we hoard our time, resources, gifts, families, and friends. When we begin the practice of regular giving we see how ludicrous it is to hold onto the abundance God has given us and merely repeat the words ‘thank you.’”

“There is more to faith than friendliness, politeness, or even kindness. I think that we sometimes assume that because we are nice people, people will know that we are Christians and want to know more about Jesus. [the great commission, our call and purpose is not simply to be nice] True faith is loving a person after they have hurt you: that love and faith is incomprehensible to the world. Who has hurt you? Who do you avoid? Who avoids you? Am I willing to do good to those people? To reach out to them?”