How Far Will God Go In My Life?

In my last post, I discussed how God uses a carrot and stick approach to draw us to Himself. I spoke in generalities, which I hope was useful for understanding. However, what’s important is application in each of our lives. How far will God go in my life to bring me to Himself?

Unless we see God mirrored what we experience in our lives (the carrot) and unless the insufficiency of our world to truly satisfy is clear to us (the stick), we won’t be drawn to God and follow His Son in executing His plan for us. God truly has a plan for us. It’s not the bed of roses, worldly success, prosperity plan that is far too often preached. It’s a plan that includes more of Him and less of the world. It replaces temporary pleasure with eternal satisfaction. It substitutes fun with fulfillment. It can look miserable and foolish when, in fact, it’s great and glorious. It can seem fanciful, when it’s the only thing that’s real.

If instead of God we seek riches, we will never feel rich enough. If we cling to youth and beauty in place of mature growth in Him, we will never feel young, pretty or healthy enough. If our lives are all about us, they will never be about Him.

He never steals our wills since He wants us to come to Him freely, but He will shut doors, lighten paths and call our names in the night. He will allow us to be unsatisfied with what the world promises will satisfy. He has created a hole in His children, that only He will fill. Sometimes He will allow that hole to pain more than hunger and to motivate more than thirst.

If nothing seems to work, if there never seems to be enough, if happiness seems illusive and life is joyless, rejoice. The hound of heaven is on your tail. He wants your salvation, but isn’t satisfied with it. He wants you. He won’t be satisfied until you want Him above all. Be thankful, that you’re close enough to feel his breath. Anticipate, that He’s got a purpose for you and, unbelievably, wants more of you.

He wants you, all of you. You are truly blessed, no matter what anyone else sees or thinks.