“I neeeeeeed this, Lord. Need. It.” In years past I often groaned those words to God, particularly regarding relationships. “I *need* him to do this…or be this…or love me like this.” Or, “I *need* them to obey me…or be kind to me…or tell me the truth.”
I would beg the Maker of the universe to see my side of things. I would plead my case half-believing that He must not know my soul-needs or else He would have already acted on my behalf.
But Jesus gave a different perspective, “Don’t be like (those who pile up lots of words before God in order to be heard) — don’t be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him.” (Matthew 6:8)
Our Daddy-God knows exactly what we need. And He doesn’t sit on His throne dangling His blessings until we say the right thing. He’s love. And He’s omniscient. And He’s forever sovereign.
As His children we *need* the situations and circumstances that will ultimately transform us into holy vessels of His love. Period. That’s a tough one to swallow when the circumstance rips us in two. I know. But God’s not purposeless. He moves with the end in mind.
The question is will we fight against Him.
When He doesn’t give what we think we *need*, will we rest secure in the knowledge that He fights for us? Will we rise up under the hope that He’s forever good and victorious?
I don’t know what you think you *need* these days, but I challenge you to say this with me. Literally, right now, out-loud say, “Daddy-God, You know exactly what I need. You are for me, not against me. I want to completely trust Your good plans.” Say it slowly, by faith. Because it’s true. He knows. And He’s working.
For those memorizing the Sermon on the Mount with me, here are this week’s verses. Keep repeating, my friends:
{Week 20}
9 Pray then like this: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name. 10 Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us this day our daily bread
Matthew 6:9-11
Fill me, Lord…
What “need” is He challenging you to lay down at His throne?
Great words. Thanks.
I have had a conflictual relationship with my stepdaughter for years now- nearly 10. This season it has hit an ultimate painful stage. She lived with our family up until this past fall, when detention centers and now a psychiatric hospital separates us. I battle with making the call, having the visit, because they are always filled with hatred and evil. Hate words, profanity and the rejection of Christ is spewed all over the place. I leave shaking, crying not sure what is gripping my heart more anger, hurt, fear…perhaps all and more. I left this relationship at the feet of Christ a few months ago, after messing it up and holding on to it for nearly 10 years. I still cry out, God do I have to call? Do you want me to call? Am I obeying you? Is this my cross? What does love look like for her? Ultimtely I want to obey and love our might,deserving God, but this love hurts. This is my biggest battle with my flesh and my mind this season.
Oh friend, I am so sorry. And I think you asked the perfect question, “What does love look like for her?” It doesn’t mean it will be easy, but I pray that He grants you great wisdom with that relationship. With much love.