Hope of all hopes, dream of our dreams, a child is born, sweet-breathed; a son is given to us: a living gift. And even now, with tiny features and dewy hair, He is great. The power of leadership, and the weight of authority, will rest on His shoulders. His name? His name we’ll know in many ways—He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Dear Father everlasting, ever-present never-failing, Master of Wholeness, Prince of Peace. ---Isaiah 9:6 (VOICE)
Have you ever found yourself running around in circles, feeling like you’re not accomplishing anything? Or kept doing the same thing over and over again, somehow expecting a different result? Some call it the definition of insanity!
Now, imagine the Israelites. God used Moses to part the Red Sea so they could cross on dry land. Just as the last person crossed, the sea closed back up and swallowed their tormentors whole. They received the Ten Commandments. They were literally fed by God, guided by a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. Yet still, they couldn’t trust God. So, they stayed stuck in the desert for 40 years, basically walking in circles.
I call that marching around the mountain of futility. Maybe you’ve been there too—trying to make things different or better. Trying to heal and grow, or help others to heal and grow. Trying to move past the pain or frustration of the past or your current situation, yet repeatedly hitting the same walls again and again.
Admittedly, I’m stubborn about certain things. Much like the Israelites, I have fought God and challenged His plans. I’ve run into so many walls my head felt bruised! Why? Because, just like those Israelites, I want to be in control. I want things to go the way I think they should. Or I’ve clung to a negative narrative in my head about not deserving more or doubting that God can keep me safe through a challenging situation.
But here’s the beauty: my Creator’s loving kindness is greater than my fears, my pride, or my broken thinking. He loved me enough to send His one and only Son into this world, born in a humble stable to poor but godly parents. This Son would grow up to become the Savior of the World, ultimately dying on a cross—a death of shame—to free me from the desert in my life.
No longer do I have to stay stuck in my own internal dialogue of brokenness. No longer does my life have to be eclipsed by fear, grief, pride, or the need for control.
God is inviting both you and me to leave the desert of futility. He’s reaching out His hand, ready to lead us out of our wandering and into a life of purpose and peace. And ultimately, into Paradise—heaven.
This Christmas, I’m slowing down enough to truly appreciate the powerful truths behind a miraculous birth in a stable over 2,000 years ago. I’m pausing to remember that the bars that kept me trapped behind stinking thinking and the broken circles I ran in have been removed. I only need to look up to see my “pillar of clouds” during the sunny days and my “pillar of fire” during the times of darkness and pain. God is right there, right beside me.
All because of the birth of a baby named Jesus—the true reason we celebrate the wonder of Christmas.
FOR FURTHER THOUGHT
Are you running around any mountains of futility? Slowly take a big, deep breath. Feel your lungs expand as you breathe in the love and peace of Jesus. Now slowly release that breath, surrendering your control, fears, pain, busyness, and distractions into the Son’s capable hands. Continue to do this until you feel your shoulders relax and your body settle.
Now, pick up your Bible (or click here) and read Psalm 139 out loud. Own and embrace those words of encouragement written to build into your very soul. When you see words like “adversary” or “bloodthirsty” or “enemies,” think of those as the broken pieces in your life that try to take you down. Invite God to continue to remove or heal them.
End with a simple prayer of surrender and gratitude, like the prayer below. Repeat this throughout the week whenever you need to get re-centered and embrace peace.
PRAYER
Lord, I come to You with open hands and a humble heart, ready to release all that weighs me down. I surrender my fears, my need for control, and the broken thoughts that keep me circling the same mountains. Thank You for loving me enough to meet me in my wandering and for leading me with Your unfailing presence. I am so grateful for the gift of Jesus, who came to rescue me from my own futility and guide me into Your peace and purpose. Help me to trust You more, to walk in the freedom You've given me, and to rest in the assurance that You are always with me. Thank You for being my light in the darkness and my strength in the storm. I place my life in Your hands, knowing You will lead me home. Amen.
Looking for more truth this Christmas? Download our free devotional "Unwrapping Truth."
ABOUT BARB LOWNSBURY
Barb is a speaker, author, and entrepreneur. She holds Bachelor's Degrees in International History and Education, as well as a Master’s Degree in Education. Barb has spoken at conferences and taught classes throughout the U.S. on topics including faith, relationships, leadership, and courage through trials. Her book, Using What’s Broken to Boldly Shine, is a powerful read on transformation through adversity. Her blog focuses on providing people with everyday encouragement and strength. Barb serves as the Executive Director for The Dented Fender Ministry and runs a successful real estate and development company. She and her husband currently reside in Dayton, Ohio.
WANT MORE SPIRITUAL GROWTH BIBLE STUDY? JOIN OUR ONLINE CLASS BOLDLY SHINE or BUY USING WHAT'S BROKEN TO BOLDLY SHINE. GET PRAYER 24/7 BY VISITING OUR WEBSITE AND CLICKING ON PRAYER IN THE MENU BAR.
Comments