Shine

   I woke up this morning and there was snow on the ground! Spring seems to be taking its time getting here this year! On the bright side, when it actually gets here, I will be even more thankful and appreciative of its beautiful weather. I have been making a conscious effort lately to try to make the best out of all circumstances. It is difficult at times, but I have been relying on the fact that God has a plan for my life and a purpose behind all that I face and because of this trusting Him has become easier for me to do.
   Surrendering our lives to God is difficult. We often think we know what is best for us and hold on to our lives so tightly. I used to struggle greatly with trying to control my life because I desired certain outcomes and wanted to fulfill specific expectations I had. It scared me to put my life and my future into God's hands because I was so concentrated on getting the things that I wanted. However, I was not seeking God's will for me life and only after fallout and brokenness did I realize how weak and unknowing I am. When I finally surrendered my life to Him, I felt a reassuring peace. The pressure I had been putting on myself to make certain things happen was gone. I had always known God had a plan for my life, but I did not live in such a way that showed I believed that. I was not fully putting my trust in Him. 
   I believe the reason we become overwhelmed is because we are not surrendering our troubles and fears to the Lord. When I find myself overwhelmed or discouraged, it is always because I have been trying to control the outcome of a situation or a relationship. It is at these times that God reminds me of the peace I have in Him when I surrender every part of my life to Him. God has reminded me that when I loosen my tight grasp on my life and give my life to Him instead, He will restore, purify and renew. Philippians 2:15 says, "May you become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation. Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky." 

   We worship a powerful God. The hard times may seem unbearable or a situation may be very confusing, but when we draw near to God, He will bring us His peace. He will refine us so that we will shine in the darkness of this world. He will redeem our hearts and in Him, we are able to be a light to others. God has been reminding me of the power He has to heal and bring reconciliation to any situation, no matter how intimidating it may seem to me. Our God is so great. In Him our purpose is made clear and we are able to shine His light into the darkness of this world.