Pursue Jesus, Not Imaginations

Jesus is trustworthy- and the Bible is clear, our imaginations should not be trusted, only God-the Alpha and Omega the beginning and the end, can accurately and perfectly steer our life.

“Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ“(2 Cor 10:5)

The world constantly promotes self reliance and individualism. We ask ourselves “What do I want to do?” But when we leave God out of our plans we allow the enemy to work in our lives. Consider a Christian who decides to start a business without seeking God’s guidance. They may work hard achieving success, even exceeding their own expectations. But the sacrifice, time away from family, endless stress and strained relationships can ultimately bring pain rather than peace. This is how we curse our lives.

“Cursed is the man who trusts in mankind and makes flesh his strength and whose heart turns away from the Lord. (Jer 17:5)

When God leads and we follow, every part of our life falls into balance. His plan will never leave our families neglected or our souls weary. Instead He provides the fulfillment, peace and joy we seek.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”(Matt 11:28-30)

God will never impose any unnecessary burdens on us in order to live well. God’s way is higher than our way. When we neglect people in order to gain as much material success as we can, we invite unnecessary pain.

“For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you a future and a hope.”(Jer 29:11)

Notice this verse says: “I know the plans I have for you”. It’s not about our plans it’s about His. Only His plan leads to true security, lasting peace and a secure future while strengthening our relationships.

Our life is not our own, we were bought with a price and with that price comes a divine purpose. If we refuse to take Jesus as our heavenly Father and live within His standards- surrendering to Him and allowing Him to guide us, we will most definitely miss abundant blessings. The most incredible blessing of all is a powerful prayer life. No self help book can tell you how to do that.

Find Wisdom In God’s Word

Blessed are those who find wisdom,
those who gain understanding,
for she is more profitable than silver
and yields better returns than gold. She is more precious than rubies;
nothing you desire can compare with her.
Long life is in her right hand;
in her left hand are riches and honor.
Her ways are pleasant ways,
and all her paths are peace.
She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her;
those who hold her fast will be blessed.

Self Help Leaves God Out

Self help strategies often leave God out of the equation. Only God can answer our prayer, direct us to jobs with better work/life balance and eventually give us our divine purpose. Imagine finding a job with less hours and more income, not by striving but by following God. With our extra time, we can lend a hand to others in order to bear “fruit” that Jesus intended for us. This lifestyle will glorify our heavenly Father rather than ourselves. And it is only by living like Christ that we can find true joy. If we are solely focused on our “To Do” list, not making room for others, we will never reach the place of peace we were hoping to find.

“Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.”(John 16:24)

When we ask God for a promise we find in His word, He will direct us to the lifestyle that will position us to receive it. God’s promises oftentimes have conditions and He is ready and willing to give us what we ask for if we are willing to submit our life to His leading. When we are “in Christ” meaning living in the way of Christ, all God’s promises are yes and Amen!

Starting with the self never gets us to the best life. Seeking God, following His way will lead to lasting peace, true success and eternal joy. Let’s choose to pursue Jesus guidance and not our imaginations. Following Christ we are given protection, provision, and kept far from evil and destruction. The enemy- our imaginations- will kill, steal and destroy many aspects of our life. God’s way is perfection!

Food For Thought,

Lisa