Why do we think performance is so critical in our lives? Is it possibly because we want to be loved and accepted? The world views success equal to love and acceptance. The perpetrator of such deception is none other that Satan. Remember, this world is Satan’s playground and even though he is defeated in the end, God does allow him a certain amount of power now. Why? Well, a good example would be the story of Job. Job loved God with all his heart but Satan came along and said to God..”Of course, Job loves you!” “You have put a hedge around him and his household and everything he has!”” You have blessed the work of his hands, so that his flocks and herds are spread throughout the land. “But stretch out your hand and strike everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face.” ” The Lord said, Very well then, everything he has is in your hands, but on the man himself do not lay a finger.” NIV

See, God understood Job’s heart better than Satan perceived it. Through great suffering, the devil failed in his attempt to turn this righteous man against God. God tests the character of every human being, who tests our hearts. Sometimes, we desperately need a dose of humble pie in order for God to fulfill his purpose in our lives. Paul, writes, We are not trying to please men but God. God allows mankind to learn that the only way to real LIFE is through his son Jesus.

So, back to performing….Once we are in Christ, our sin is forgiven- dead and buried!! PERIOD… However, often times  humans keep striving for perfection through hard work and good deeds. Are these important, yes and no… They are important in the sense that if God is leading, then he does want us to work hard for His glory. If we choose to go on and create our own plan and act out of our own resources, then no. We have to decide if we are living for man ( ourselves and others) or are we living for God who will direct our steps and show us the way. Satan likes to disguise much of what God set forth. He has sought to twist the minds of men, even good men ( humanly speaking).

The key to really understanding God’s path is too learn from Him and to release yourself into His care. This takes discipline but it is so worth it because his love for us is real. I know this may seem impossible but it’s not because God will help you. For I am the Lord, your God who takes a hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you- Isaiah 41:13 NIV

God does not care what you did yesterday or what you will do tomorrow. He already knows all of your days. It has been written in the Book of Life if you are in Christ. How refreshing is it to know that He will never leave you no matter what you do?

God’s verdict on performance apart from Him…It is declares God, like filthy garments. Apart from God, you can do nothing. You may ask, “Well I know a lot of people who have become “successful” by working hard and they seem to have pretty good lives?” God does give us a choice and  he allows us to use resources and talents that he ultimately gave us. But, those things won’t bring life. People feel empty without God whether they realize it or not. People want what God wants whether they realize it or not. Money is moved by the spirit and Jesus came to give us abundant life but God wants us to live joyfully whether we have money or we don’t. We can have seasons of both. We are all just stewards/borrowers of what is His. The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world and all who live in it- Psalm 24:1 NIV

If you start releasing your life into God’s care ( after you have received Christ Jesus as your Lord and Savior), you can be guaranteed of these things… God will meet all of your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.

1. Protection

2. Support

3. Power

4. Guidance

We have a Father that loves us with no ulterior motives, who will convict us when he sees that we are causing harm to ourselves and others, who will protect us, support us, give us His strength and power, and guide us as we walk with Him.

WHAT?????? How can we not want to receive this precious gift? Ephesians 3:20 tells us that He wants to do abundantly above and beyond ALL that we could ever think or ask for… according to His work within us ( that is the part of surrendering, everything and I mean everything over into His care).

Are you feeling empty, lost and confused? Are you feeling sad? Are you feeling defeated? Is your marriage falling apart? Are you sick? Are you out of money? Are you not sure what to do next? God knows how to help in all of those situations. People refuse to die to themselves, to humble themselves, and to let God have his way in their lives. They end up letting their marriage crumble or their dreams die in the valley.

The valley is a season of refining so lean in….Take the hand of your Father and know that He will lead you to the other side. The valley is a gift! It is God saying let me show you a better way, My way… But first, I must work the junk out of you that you were never meant to carry. Pride, entitlement, deceit, self-seeking, man’s own understanding and ways. Those things lead to death ( your soul grieving ) because it is out of alignment with God’s spirit in you and your spirit in Him.

God loves us too much to promote us before we are ready. Lay all of your burdens on Him, everyday. I believe He has a great plan for your life, it is our job to believe it, release it and then ultimately receive it. The Lord always goes before us.

Fear of the Lord is called the beginning or foundation of wisdom, it is the discipline or instruction of true wisdom. There is more to this life, much more and His name is Jesus.

IG @armedforgood

xo