By faith he [Abraham] made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country; he lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise. For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God. -- Hebrews 11:9-10
Abraham lived in a tent in the promised land and waited until God built him a home with a permanent foundation. And I see that he found contentment there. That is a lesson I had to learn myself.
A woman's home, many times, becomes part of her identity. It is a safety net we rely on to always provide security, warmth and safety. As I faced the reality of a second failed marriage without an income enough to support myself, I begged my then husband to wait on the divorce until I could find a job which would allow me to keep the house. He waited for a while. But, God had other plans for me. My husband became impatient when I failed at finding a job within a couple of months and he decided to list the house with a realtor. My heart sank.
Each time the realtor held an open house, I would hold my breath and pray it wouldn't sell. The anxiety I felt over leaving the home caused a fight with my husband each time it was shown. A couple of months passed before I realized what was happening. The home had become my security...and God was asking me to trust Him. So, with growing faith, I began to pray, "Lord, this house is yours to do what you want with. Teach me to let it go."
The next few months proved fruitful as God slowly pried the home from my grip and I began to trust him to lead me. When the house sold eight months later, I was ready to leave--still not knowing where I would live.
My parents graciously settled me in their home and, like Abraham, their home became my tent as I waited for the builder to blueprint my home with a foundation. That home came 16 months later as I painstakingly and patiently (not always) grew and healed through the process gaining a faith bigger than I ever imagined.
And because of that journey--like Abraham--I am learning to obey without hesitation. How about you?
1 comment:
My BFF & SS! You never cease to amaze me with your postings! You have a gift of spiritual insight that is refreshing and new. I am so fortunate that God put us together and to call you my friend! I look forward to more of our walks together!
Love ya! Suz
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