“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” Matthew 11:29 (MSG)
Have you ever heard anything so refreshing? These last two months, my relationship with Jesus hasn't been perfect. Instead of treating Him like a best friend, I've treated Him like a judgemental father. I spent a few months serving as a missionary in Guatemala, returning home to Wisconsin in October. My time as a missionary was beautiful; I spent loads of time in the Word and helping the locals in Antigua. But, once I came home, I found myself slowly slipping. I started making little compromises, forgetting to pray or read my Bible one day, which turned into two, then three. I joined some old friends to a night on the town, waking up the next morning with an empty heart. I found myself accepting dates with the wrong guys, knowing beforehand they weren't the one God had for me.
Funny how we forget God is the one who created the entire world. He knows what makes us happy. He knows where we should hang out, what we should do with our time, and who we should date. Like the book of Matthew says, He "doesn't put anything ill-fitting on our shoulders;" we do that to ourselves. I'd wake up after a date feeling broken and lost, asking God why He allowed me to go. "Paige, my darling, my child, I told you to wait. Wait on my timing. Wait on me," I'd hear back.
Little compromises lead to big falls. Going back to the basics is key to Christian living. Jesus came, died on the cross, rose from the dead, and is still alive today to guide us down the right paths. He is not judgemental. He doesn't hate us if we skip a day or two of time with Him. He's always there. He will always redirect you, just like He redirected me.
And ladies, don't fall for the wrong man. Sure, Prince Charming may only exist in fairy tales, but God has a hand-chosen man from within His flock who will be your personal, real-life Prince Charming. He may not wear a crown and gallop up on a big white horse, but I guarantee he will adore you, pamper you, and point you to the Truth of Christ. He'll be a man you'll take pride in taking care of; a man with Jesus in his eyes. Wait quietly and allow Jesus to handle the details.
