As I walk each day, living in my “true identity” (Who God says I am!), I know that God loves me and wants to change and transform me. Like the caterpillar goes through the change to become a butterfly, it is a process with little control. I know I will become new and have the Peace of His presence as I go through this change.
In my daily walk, I still have pain, and sorrow and joy! But, I know who I am. The change process is messy and hard but it is God within me, transforming and healing me.
The first thing I did on my journey was to reconcile myself to God and to myself. As Anne wrote last week, “Look Up!” Look who you are talking to, the Lord of Hosts, and tell Him the truth that is on your heart. I have spent many hours speaking my truth to the Lord. Psalms 23 has been a comfort and strength to me.
Psalms 23
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. 3 He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake.
4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the Lord Forever.
Then I had to “Look in!” Seeking first the kingdom of God, listening to God. I know He will speak to me through the Holy Spirit, the Word of God, and people of God in my life. Spending time listening is contemplation and prayer is helping. Listening to songs also helps center my thoughts on Jesus. Being committed to a core group of people who love, support and challenge me is a blessing.
John 10:14-16
14 I am the good shepherd; and I know My sheep, and am known by My own. 15 As the Father knows Me, even so I know the Father; and I lay down My life for the sheep. 16 And other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear My voice; and there will be one flock and one shepherd.
The sheep follow because they know His voice. As I abide in Christ, I hear His voice! I continue to practice asking God; What do you want me to know? What do you want me to do? And I Listen…
-Cindy Bartman