Fresh Wind
I’m running ragged.
It’s why I didn’t want to jump into this series. Writing posts about resting in God’s care at 2 AM when you are sleep deprived and surviving on caffeine-fueled adrenaline seems rather hypocritical.
But here’s the thing, I knew God wanted me to write this. Yes, I am exhausted and probably not the best example.
Why would I tell you to “just breathe” when I need an oxygen mask?
Here’s what I’ve learned after 29 days of writing when I should be sleeping.
It’s not about me.
God never asked me to be strong. He doesn’t expect me to scale the mountain and jump off the precipice using my own energy.
What is it that you are scared to do for God? Whatever is rising up in your heart is meant to take flight. Sure, you may have a broken wing, but God uses wounded birds to display His glorious work to a watching world.
All you have to do is start fluttering your wings.
I used to think that “waiting on the Lord” meant I needed to sit still, and somehow He would magically fill me up with His power. But, God never anoints those who are sitting on the sidelines.
God’s plan for you was never for you to live in a perpetual “time out.” He pours His power into those who rise up from the valley and press into Him.
Flap your wings of faith, and God will fill you with fresh wind.
- Remember you are already seated with Christ in the heavenlies. He’s designed you perfectly for flight (Ephesians 2:1-10).
- Recall all the brave flyers who have gone before you. As you keep an eagle eye on Christ, He will keep you on course (Hebrews 12:1-3).
- Realize that you can rise above the shadows even on the hardest of days if you stay tethered to Christ’s strength (Colossians 2:6-7).
As you jump out of your nest of comfort, God will undergird you and empower you to soar above the strong wings of adversity.
Breathing Exercise:
Read Isaiah 40:27-31. Remember that in order to fly, you have to jump out of the nest. You weren’t designed to settle. You were created to soar.
Listen to this song of surrender. Breathe a prayer to the God who is the wind beneath your wings. Ask Him to give you courage to start flapping your wings of faith.
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Something to think about…
Congratulations, Lyli! You made it through 31 days! And now for some sleep!
Alas, Michele, I have 2 more days to go! I will sleep next week. 🙂
It would be so much easier for US if he just recruited us while we were on the sidelines comfy and safe in our homes. 🙂 Great post!
Lyli, I loved this post as it spoke to me this morning. God truly does not call us to do what comes easily or comfortably to us. I think He saves us from thinking that we are able. As He positions us to rely on Him, we come to realize that in ourselves we can do little but in His strength, we are enabled to do all things. Keep going, friend, as God is using your words to help us all breathe. xo
“Just breathe” ~ yes. It’s amazing how we find God in those “little moments” littered throughout our regularly lived day – when we look to and acknowledge God. It’s definitely a form of “rest”, although I must admit I need those quiet times as well. Your post made me think of Jonny Diaz’s Breathe. It’s playing as I type this. 😉 xo
As you can probably guess, that song inspired this entire series. I actually wrote a blog post about it earlier this year as well. 🙂
This is such important advice, Lyli. My default is to pull back, but often God wants me to keep taking those steps forward.
Love this: “All you have to do is start fluttering your wings. I used to think that “waiting on the Lord” meant I needed to sit still, and somehow He would magically fill me up with His power. But, God never anoints those who are sitting on the sidelines.
You are such a faithful witness here! I appreciate you so much.
The times God has nudged me out of my comfort zone, beyond my own strength, have been hard, but what an opportunity to experience His grace. So thankful our strength comes from Him.
Lyli…Thought provoking post today. Thank you for the encouragement and for hosting. 🙂
Lyli,
Just wanted to tell you that I sincerely appreciated every one of these “Just Breathe” posts. All your lack of sleep and efforts were not in vain. My newest focus is “inspiration.” I hope to inspire others into His Kingdom and am always looking for inspiration from others to keep me on target and to keep me from getting stale. Your words mattered to me 😀
Thank you, Nann. I am so humbled that these simple posts resonated with you. May God give you continued strength, courage, & inspiration as you breathe in His grace. Hugs
No – we weren’t designed to settle down, were we! We never “arrive” – we just need to, as you so beautifully put it, “flutter our wings” and let God handle the strength! Good word, Lyli!
Thank you for the reminder that He is sufficient for us…most often in those places where we find ourselves weak. In these moments we can see His strength more clearly. So many encouraging scriptures/photos!!
This is honestly a very relaxing post. Just breathe.
Oh Lyli – I am right there with you – in fact, my Vlog post this week was titles Just Breathe – I stop by read and visit you each Thursday and I didn’t make the connection to my title and your series until today as I read your post.. May I link to you blog in my post? I am in need of your truths written here and in fact am going to go back and read your previous posts as well… I like that you are writing through the challenge you are in right now, you are authentic and real and I like and appreciate both of those character traits, thank you for your truths written today and each Thursday! I need them Blessings
Of course, Deb! Thanks so much for asking. — I have your post saved & am going to visit it next week when life settles down a bit. xo
Oh great thanks so much – I had full busy weekend, but I am linking to your blog now. and I plan to go back and read your entire month. this week is less chaotic and all of October! haha – praying you get some rest this week and things settle down for you too.