Getting Unstuck
As followers of Jesus, we have been given promises of certainty as we live our lives on earth. Yet, it would be disingenuous to suggest that our lives are not without adversity. In particular, many of us have experienced times in our life where we feel “stuck.” How we address this sort of adversity reveals much about the nature of our walk with God.
Shawn Bolz delivered a wonderful message on getting unstucl which you can view below:
What follows are the 6 things he listed for us all to consider as we move through the process of getting “unstuck.”
1. Remember The Red Sea Moments–Exodus 14-21-22
God is the God of the impossible. He always makes away; this is unmistakable. Ask God to show you the options that you need to do or to do the things are not humanly possible that you need for Him to intervene.
2. Embrace The Wilderness Season–DEUTERONOMY 8:2-3
We need to remember that, more than anything, God wants to be in relationship with us. Stay opportunistic as God is always interested in growing, developing and transforming you into a “new you.” For this to happen requires a extraordinary level of trust in Him. God is always working to refine and prepare us. Be encouraged as it is only a season.
3. From Mess to Success–ROMANS 8:28
We can all relate to our faults, failures, and shame. The Bible is full of so many who were a complete mess – just like us – before walking them into their success. In each case, what was originally intended for evil, God will take to be used for good.
4. Wait On The Lord… and Listen–JOHN 5:1-9
Frankly, this may be the most difficult element to consider. Wait? Really?!?! If we consider our attitude, we begin to realize that we’ve built our own little cage with our thinking. We begin to look for something…anything, outside ourselves to fix our problem. Remember the cripple at the bath? He kept waiting for someone to help bring him to the pool as the water is stirred. Upon coming to him, Jesus simply asked “Do you want to be healed?” As challenging as it can be, actively seek Him and listen for His guidance.. And, ado what we tells you.
5. Focus On Jesus In The Midst Of the Storm–MATTHEW 14:28-31
Look to Jesus, always. Peter did it when he stepped out of the boat. His only problem was taking his eyes off of Jesus. How many times do we have a similar experience. We are doing our own version of walking on water only to take our eyes off Jesus. It is that moment things seem to become more difficult or even impossible.
6. Praise Is The “Secret” Weapon–ACTS 16:25-25
When Paul and Silas were in prison, they began to sing songs of praise. An earthquake erupted and their chains fell off. When the chips are down in our life, I wonder how often any of us think to first give praise to our heavenly creator. We know that he isn’t responsible for evil and His only concern is for our good and well-being. Our faith, and the nature of our relationship to God, is stirred with praise. Always, always, always, in all things and at all times, give PRAISE!
Adversity comes into our lives in many forms. Jesus redeemed us and we are now more than conquerors. How are you approaching life? Feeling stuck doesn’t have to be a negative. God is with you and has you where He wants you. Take comfort.
Submitted by: Jude Sullivan
