we can only do SO much

I learned a very sad lesson early in my life that shaped my life for years to come. I had experienced my fair share of deceit and disappointments to conclude that the only person I could trust to make things happen was myself. So for years I went through life trusting in my strengths, abilities etc., and avoided relying too much on others. I was in control of my destiny! At least, so I thought. My system worked for a while, it brought me some degree of academic, professional and financial success, until I faced external constraints in which my abilities etc. were not enough to get me where I wanted to go. It was interesting how God humbled me. He took me out of my native country, away from my family and an environment with which I was familiar and brought me to an unfamiliar land where it was extremely difficult if not impossible to accomplish my dreams without him. Oh yeah, I learned to trust him real quick, as I had no other choice. God shouldn't have to remove our comforts and conveniences for us to trust him. We shouldn't have to go through hardships to learn to trust God. Unfortunately for so many of us that's what it took.

The bible constantly admonishes us to trust in God. Isaiah 31:1 and Jeremiah 48:7 warns us against putting our trust in material things and not God. In John 14:1, Jesus tells us to trust in the father and in him. Isaiah 28:16 says if we trust in Christ, we will never be put to shame. Psalm 32:10 tells of the unfailing love that surrounds those who trust in God. Yet despite the numerous reassurances and promises, learning to trust God is one of the hardest things for us to do.

Let us get one thing straight. We exist because of God! Every day we are alive is because of his grace and mercies! It has nothing to do with us!! He has a plan for our lives that was created before we were born. Our destiny is in his hands. So while it is important to work hard and give our best to what we do, make no mistake our abilities, talents etc that creates the wealth and security on which we live is not from us but from God. So we need to trust in the source and not the outcome! God has given us so much, and has brought us this far. Why can't we depend on him to fulfill his purpose for our lives? Jeremiah 29:11 says "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future." I memorized this scripture during the heights of my personal battle and am here to say that he has kept his word! I believe my best is yet to come! I am sure there are many more battles that I will face, but I will continue to trust and look to him. After all worrying, fretting or crying about my situation will not change it. Learn to fight your battles effectively and overcome any situation, circumstance, or stronghold in your life. Trust in God and obey his word!!

Have a great week!!

-GG