Trying to communicate reality is difficult. Most find it easier to live in a world of their imagination. The facts don’t matter, my world is better. Reality doesn’t need to change what I already believe. Even when someone drags me to the truth, metaphorically kicking and screaming, I still find myself in denial. I like where I am; why change? In the norm, I’m comfortable with the status quo; why do something different? For the most part, I want things to be easier not harder; why take the risk of walking up hill?
Being comfortable in my weakness is not a good thing. Longing for a virtual peace which really isn’t true peace is not going to bring peace no matter how hard I try for it. I need to have the truth laid out in cold loving reality. When I see God’s messenger sharing a word I know I should sit up and listen. “Sail for home, O ships of Tarshish. There are no docks left in this harbor. God reached out to the sea and sea traders, threw the sea kingdoms into turmoil. God ordered the destruction of the seacoast cities, the centers of commerce. God said, ‘There's nothing left here to be proud of, bankrupt and bereft Sidon. Do you want to make a new start in Cyprus? Don't count on it. Nothing there will work out for you either.’” (Isaiah 23.10-12)
If I want a new start then I should include the following steps.
Rediscover the home God has made for me. Find myself in God. Discover how God is willing to live within me.
Be aware and guard against becoming attached to vacation homes. My home is with God – 24×7. My home isn’t in or with the vacation spots of this world.
Take a fresh look at what makes me priceless. I will probably rediscover the value I represent has nothing to do with my capabilities and performance. My value is and will always be because of God’s action with and for me.
Today’s a new start.
