Thursday, May 31, 2012

Pressing In and Moving Forward


"For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him." 2 Chronicles 16:9

Desperate for His touch, I run into His presence. My heart seeks peace, heavenly shalom, but life (and the woofy neighbor-dog) gropes, pokes, prods, plays tug-o'-war for my attention until I beg, "Stop!" But that stubborn dog continues his baritone chorus. Undermining his concert I repeat, "Silence that dog. Silence that dog. Silence. That. Dog!" He quiets.

The atmosphere shifts. He's here. God's broken through my screaming world. Like a child on her daddy's lap, I press in and listen to His heart. It beats slow, steady, sure-a confident, reassuring rhythm.  Shallow breaths calm, lengthen. In silence, I rest. He lingers.

He shoulders my weight, all my doubts, and insecurities. I press in closer because He speaks what I need to hear - the language of hope. I can't afford to miss a word. There's no great assignment, no reminder of my Kingdom purpose, no ominous, foreign liturgy - only love. I linger.

This uninterrupted, inexplicable  time together ends with an incoming phone call - an invitation into my passion, marked with God's fingerprints. He's moving me forward.

Jesus says, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world" (John 16:33). As Christ-followers, we're not immune to trouble, but we do have a way out, if we want it. Jesus said it - he has over come the world (and all it's trouble). He is the Way, the Truth, the Life (John14:6) and the only way to the Father. But, we have to press in - invite His presence. It's there we experience God's break through, healing, and restoration. And then? He moves us forward.

Are you ready? Press in. Move forward.

4 comments:

  1. Hi Dawn!
    Thank you Dawn for the comment on my guest post yesterday! Now, I see more of what you meant when you said you're learning to "press in". WONDERFUL! This is good news for both you and I, right!? :) HE is the good news! ~ Blessings on your night, Amy

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    1. Amy,

      You are a talented writer, a great encourager, and a precious sister in the Lord. So glad God's brought us together through words. I do hope we get to meet in person at She Speaks.

      Pressing in? Yes. It. Is. Good. For both you and I. God's wooing us like never before. When He beckons? Run. Run like your life depends on it, because really, life does depend on it.

      Enjoy your kitchen dance (wink) with the wee ones.

      Dawn

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    2. By running I do mean towards Him, not away!

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