The Dusty Magazine

I don't usually read "motherhood magazines" because I find them awfully dull and redundant, and usually pretty cheesy. But, today I decided to take a moment to flip thru a Christian Women's magazine that my sis had sent to me last spring. It's been collecting dust next to my bed since then. (Sorry Lindsey!) Immediately I was riveted by the wisdom saturating the articles. One phrase totally struck me...like a wooden 2x4 smacking me across my thick, stubborn skull. "When our faith is secure, we will be touched by circumstances, yet governed by the Holy Spirit. This we decide every day, with every issue."

Wow! A simple, timeless message. There is so much truth packed into these few short words. It starts with our faith being secure in Christ. But how do you just come up with secure faith? I think it starts with a decision. "Lord, I choose to trust You. Period." Then, we go about our business and find ourselves touched by circumstance. Okay, that hits home with many of us nowadays. So many circumstances are swirling out of our control lately. But our response to the circumstance is governed by the Holy Spirit. I love that they chose to use the word governed in this sentence. I think this requires a constant interaction with Him. "Lord, how would you have me respond today? What should I say? How should I feel?" Then, the part about, "this we decide every day, with every issue," suggests that it is a continual battle within us to do what is right; to respond with faith. And through this repetitive cycle, I truly believe that we will be brought back to the initial concept: SECURE FAITH. When we allow Him to, He proves Himself faithful. And our faith has a chance to grow.

Alright, Lord. How I've blown it, even this week, by responding to circumstance with ugly attitudes or hurtful words. Thank you for another kick in the pants. Today I choose to start at the beginning: Lord, I choose to trust You. Period. Help me live a life governed by you, at every circumstance. And may my faith continue to grow more secure in You.

And thank you for cheesy Women's Magazines.