we all have “a-ha” moments in life. sometimes while reading, often simply in our daily living.
small paradigm shifts that bring clarity, and hopefully deeper understanding of ourselves, others, and God.
I love the “a-ha” moments that bring comfort and encouragement.
indulge me a few minutes to share one of mine:
studying the Bible is nothing new for me. I have studied formally and informally for years. in school. on my own. for a grade, a project. as part of my job and ministry, in writing curriculum, mentoring. for myself, to listen and learn.
through the years, I have read the entire text multiple times. sometimes front to back, slogging through Exodus and Numbers, wincing at the detail of Jael killing her enemy with a tent peg, rejoicing with Esther when her people are saved, sitting with the crowds and listening to Jesus. other times a chronological or book study.
so it surprises me (pleasantly so!) when I find a verse or story I’ve previously missed.
this is one of my favorites:
The Lord your God is in your midst,
a mighty one who will save;
he will rejoice over you with gladness;
he will quiet you with his love;
he will exalt over you with loud singing (Zephaniah 3:17)
in applying this to my own relationship with God, I am fully aware this verse is completely out of context. and while the prophet is addressing Jerusalem, the characteristics of God remain true for all His children.
the paradigm shift for me came in a new picture of God the Father. somewhere along the way, I subscribed to a picture of Him that is stern, judgmental, and basically cross. coming across this verse ripped that picture to shreds, leaving me to honestly look at who God the Father is and what our relationship might look like.
He stands in the middle of my life, ready to save.
He rejoices over me–with deep gladness.
He cares enough to help calm my internal world and immerse me in His love.
He sings with great joy over me.
the God of the universe. Creator God. Abba Father. the Mighty Warrior.
loves me.
tenderly
passionately
protectively
with abandon
just writing those words, I am again left speechless.
how do you experience God? has He encouraged you so deeply that you are left speechless?
abiding one 